University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in chemistry, biology and quantitative methods before moving into specialised topics that address chemical, physical and biological risks in air, water, soil and workplaces. Core subject areas typically include exposure assessment, environmental chemistry, toxicology, epidemiology, risk assessment, occupational and environmental regulations, and environmental sampling methods.

Students take a mix of lecture, laboratory and field courses. Typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Foundations in chemistry and biology – general and organic chemistry, cell biology and microbiology to understand pathways of environmental contaminants.
• Quantitative and analytical methods – statistics, environmental data analysis and laboratory instrumentation (e.g. gas chromatography, mass spectrometry basics).
• Exposure science and toxicology – routes of exposure, dose–response relationships and mechanisms of toxicity.
• Environmental monitoring and sampling – field sampling techniques for air, water and soil, personal sampling for occupational exposures.
• Risk assessment and policy – methods to characterise health risks, environmental law, regulatory frameworks and communication of risk.
• GIS and spatial analysis – using geographic information systems to map exposures and vulnerable populations.
• Capstone and experiential learning – a senior capstone or practicum that integrates laboratory, field and community projects, and opportunities for internships with public‑sector or private partners.

Programme structure

The degree follows a combination of general education requirements, prerequisite science courses, a sequence of major requirements, elective choices and a culminating project or internship. Many students take advantage of undergraduate research with faculty in environmental science, public health and allied departments, and some complete cross‑disciplinary minors such as public health, environmental studies or statistics.

Entry requirements

Competitive applicants typically demonstrate strong preparation in mathematics and the biological or physical sciences. For secondary‑school applicants this commonly means qualifications that include chemistry and mathematics (or equivalent); successful applicants show solid grades in STEM subjects and evidence of laboratory or field interest.

Transfer applicants are usually expected to have completed introductory biology, chemistry and calculus or statistics at the post‑secondary level and to hold a competitive college GPA. International applicants must meet the university's English proficiency requirements and provide equivalent academic credentials.

In addition to academic qualifications, admissions tutors value relevant extracurricular experience such as laboratory work, environmental volunteering, internships, or participation in research projects. Specific requirements and the application process are maintained by the university and may vary by applicant class and residency.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Environmental Health programme move into a range of applied and policy roles. Typical career paths include:

• Environmental health specialist or public‑health practitioner in local, state or federal agencies.
• Environmental consultant or analyst for private consultancies addressing contamination, remediation and regulatory compliance.
• Occupational hygienist or safety professional in industry, manufacturing and construction sectors.
• Laboratory analyst or research technician in environmental chemistry, exposure science or ecotoxicology labs.
• Policy analyst or programme officer for non‑governmental organisations working on environmental justice, water quality or air pollution.
• Continuation to graduate study such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), environmental engineering, toxicology or related research degrees.

Hands‑on skills in sampling, laboratory techniques, data analysis and risk communication are highly valued by employers and support entry into both technical and regulatory careers.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

CU Boulder offers a strong interdisciplinary environment with faculty expertise across environmental science, public health and engineering. The campus benefits from proximity to mountain ecosystems and diverse field sites for study and research, enabling practical field courses and real‑world sampling opportunities.

Students can access research centres and institutes that focus on environment and health topics, engage in undergraduate research, and take advantage of partnerships with regional agencies, national laboratories and environmental consultancies. The university's emphasis on experiential learning, combined with career services and internship support, helps prepare graduates for both immediate employment and further professional study.