University of Cincinnati

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health and environmental science principles with applied training in environmental monitoring, risk assessment and regulatory compliance. Typical topics include environmental toxicology, environmental microbiology, exposure assessment, air and water quality, industrial hygiene, epidemiology, environmental law and policy, and methods in environmental sampling and analysis.

Instruction mixes classroom lectures, laboratory practicals and field-based activities. Students learn quantitative skills such as statistics and exposure modelling, laboratory techniques for chemical and microbiological analysis, and qualitative skills in risk communication and environmental management.

Many students complete a capstone project or practicum that involves real-world problem solving for a public agency, private company or research group. The University of Cincinnati’s cooperative education (co-op) programme is commonly used by Environmental Health students to gain semester-long paid work placements in industry, government or non-profit organisations, providing hands-on experience and professional networking.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in science and mathematics. Typical preparations include courses in biology, chemistry (often including one year of general chemistry), algebra or pre-calculus, and recommended coursework in physics and statistics.

Admission is based on overall academic record; standardised test requirements and minimum GPA expectations follow the university’s undergraduate admissions policies and may vary by year. Transfer students with college-level coursework in relevant sciences are considered; prospective students should contact the admissions office for specific credit-evaluation guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles in public and private sectors. Common positions include environmental health specialist, public health inspector, environmental technician, industrial hygienist (often requiring additional certification or graduate training), environmental compliance officer, and environmental risk assessor.

Employers include local and national public health departments, environmental protection agencies, private environmental consulting firms, manufacturing and utilities companies, and non-governmental organisations. Many graduates also continue into graduate study in environmental health, public health (MPH), occupational health, industrial hygiene or related disciplines to expand technical expertise and career advancement opportunities.

Why study at University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers an applied curriculum with strong ties to local public health agencies, industry partners and research centres, providing opportunities for internships, co-op placements and community-engaged projects. The co-operative education programme is a distinctive feature that helps students gain extended, paid professional experience and build employer connections before graduation.

Students benefit from access to on-campus laboratories, field equipment and faculty with expertise in environmental science, toxicology and public health practice. The university’s location in a metropolitan region with diverse manufacturing, healthcare and environmental organisations supports practical training and employment pathways for environmental health graduates.