Curtin University

What you'll study

This programme combines core science with disciplinary studies in workplace health and safety, environmental management and risk assessment. You will study the scientific foundations of hazard control, human factors and environmental systems, and learn to apply these in organisational contexts.

• Core topics: occupational health and safety principles, hazard identification and risk assessment, incident investigation, safety management systems, legal and regulatory frameworks.
• Environmental subjects: pollution control, environmental monitoring and assessment, waste management, sustainability and natural resource management.
• Science and technical skills: occupational hygiene, toxicology, ergonomics, statistics and data analysis, environmental chemistry and field sampling techniques.
• Professional practice: workplace design and human factors, emergency planning and response, auditing and compliance, communication and safety leadership.
• Capstone and practical experience: applied projects, laboratory and field practicals, and industry engagement to develop workplace-ready skills.

The degree is structured to progress from foundational science and research skills into specialised HSE units and applied coursework. Electives allow you to tailor study towards industry safety, environmental compliance or risk consulting. Many students undertake a final-year project or professional placement to consolidate learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to meet Curtin University's general undergraduate admission standards through a recognised senior secondary qualification, tertiary transfer or equivalent. Typical applicants have a background in science, mathematics or engineering subjects at secondary level.

• Academic prerequisites: completion of a recognised secondary school qualification (or equivalent) with recommended studies in mathematics and a science subject; tertiary transfer applicants are assessed on prior post‑secondary study.
• English language: demonstrated proficiency in English in line with Curtin's undergraduate requirements for international students and English-language assessments where applicable.
• Other pathways: applicants with relevant work experience or vocational qualifications may be considered through alternative entry pathways or recognition of prior learning.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that combine safety, health and environmental responsibilities across industry sectors such as mining, construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, utilities and public services. Career pathways commonly include:

• Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) officer or advisor
• Environmental compliance officer and environmental scientist
• Occupational hygiene technician or specialist
• Risk assessor, safety auditor or loss-prevention consultant
• Emergency management and incident response roles
• Regulatory inspector or consultant in private practice

With experience and further professional development, graduates can progress to senior HSE management, consultancy leadership, specialist technical roles or regulatory and policy positions.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin emphasises applied learning with strong industry engagement, practical laboratories and field-based teaching that prepare students for workplace demands. The university has links with industry partners across resource, engineering and environmental sectors, offering opportunities for placements, projects and networking.

Students benefit from a curriculum informed by current regulatory and industry practice and teaching staff with applied experience and research expertise in safety science and environmental management. Curtin’s global outlook and multi‑disciplinary science environment support transferable skills in data analysis, problem solving and professional communication that employers value.