Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in natural and health sciences and applies those principles to real-world environmental-health problems. Core study areas typically include environmental toxicology, epidemiology, exposure assessment, environmental microbiology, drinking-water and wastewater management, air quality and pollution control, hazardous-waste management, environmental law and regulations, and risk communication.

• Foundational sciences: coursework in biology, general and organic chemistry, ecology and statistics to support analytical work.
• Major core: modules on contaminants and human health, environmental sampling and laboratory methods, industrial hygiene basics, and environmental policy and regulatory frameworks.
• Technical skills: training in environmental monitoring, use of laboratory equipment, geographic information systems (GIS) for exposure mapping, and quantitative data analysis.
• Applied learning: field-based projects, laboratory practica and a senior capstone or research project focused on a local or regional environmental-health issue.
• Electives and special topics: options may include climate and health, food safety, vector-borne disease, occupational safety, or community health assessment.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme requires a high-school diploma or equivalent. Applicants are expected to have completed college-preparatory courses, with recommended preparation in biology, chemistry and mathematics. NAU considers overall academic preparation and typically looks for evidence of readiness for university-level science, such as strong performance in STEM subjects.

Applicants who have completed preparatory college courses or who hold transfer credits from accredited post-secondary institutions should submit official transcripts for transfer evaluation. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or qualifying pathways per university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BSc in Environmental Health can enter roles in public health departments, environmental protection agencies, consulting firms, utilities and industry. Typical positions include environmental health specialist, environmental compliance officer, water-quality technician, occupational health and safety technician, environmental laboratory technologist and community health educator.

The degree also provides a pathway to graduate or professional study, such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), industrial hygiene, environmental engineering or law, and can support certification routes where applicable (for example, certification/licensure in environmental health or related professional credentials, depending on jurisdiction).

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers hands-on learning in diverse landscapes—from arid basins to montane forests—providing a wide range of fieldwork and research opportunities relevant to environmental health. The programme emphasises experiential education through laboratory practica, field sampling, internships and community partnerships with local and regional agencies.

Students benefit from smaller class sizes and faculty who combine research expertise with applied practice, as well as connections to regional employers and public-health organisations for internships and capstone projects. Facilities supporting the programme commonly include teaching laboratories, GIS resources and opportunities to collaborate on interdisciplinary research addressing environmental-health challenges in the region.