Florida International University

What you'll study

This programme combines core natural-science training with applied public-health and environmental management coursework. You will build a foundation in biology, chemistry and statistics before moving into environmental health-specific subjects.

• Core science courses: general chemistry, organic chemistry or chemical principles, microbiology, human anatomy and physiology, and biostatistics.
• Environmental health subjects: environmental toxicology, exposure assessment, environmental epidemiology, air and water quality, food safety, vector control and hazardous materials management.
• Technical and analytical skills: environmental monitoring and sampling methods, laboratory techniques, geographic information systems (GIS) for environmental health, risk assessment and environmental modelling.
• Law, policy and management: environmental law and regulation, occupational health and safety, emergency preparedness and environmental policy and planning.
• Practical experience: fieldwork and laboratory practicums, a supervised internship with a public-health agency or private employer, and a senior capstone or research project that integrates classroom learning with a real-world problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes courses in chemistry, biology, algebra/trigonometry and English.

• Successful applicants normally demonstrate competitive academic performance in secondary school; specific grade thresholds vary by admissions cycle and applicant pool.
• Prerequisite coursework in chemistry and biology may be required for direct entry; transfer students should expect to provide transcripts showing completed collegiate science coursework.
• International applicants must meet English-language proficiency requirements and submit recognised credential evaluations where applicable.
• Some applicants may be invited to discuss their interest and relevant experience; relevant voluntary work, lab experience or community health involvement strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across public health, environmental protection, industry and consulting. The degree provides the scientific grounding and practical skills employers seek and can be a stepping stone to professional certification or further study.

• Public-sector roles: environmental health specialist, public-health inspector, regulatory compliance officer with local, state or federal agencies.
• Private-sector and consulting: environmental consultant, industrial hygiene technician (often with additional certification), environmental compliance manager, safety and occupational health officer.
• Emergency response and hazardous materials: hazmat coordinator, emergency preparedness planner, disaster response specialist.
• Analytical and laboratory roles: environmental laboratory technician, water-quality analyst, air monitoring technician.
• Further study and research: many graduates pursue graduate degrees in public health, environmental science, epidemiology, occupational health or law, which broaden career and leadership opportunities.

Why study at Florida International University

FIU’s location in a subtropical, coastal region provides unique teaching and research opportunities focused on coastal hazards, tropical disease vectors and urban environmental challenges. Students benefit from applied learning through local internships, partnerships with municipal and state health agencies and collaborations with research centres on campus.

• Access to practicum and internship placements in a large metropolitan area with diverse environmental health needs.
• Opportunities to work in well-equipped teaching laboratories and to learn GIS and modern environmental monitoring techniques.
• Faculty who combine academic research with applied public-health practice and community engagement.
• A multidisciplinary approach connecting environmental science, public health practice, policy and emergency preparedness, preparing graduates for a broad range of employers and further study options.