University of Hull

What you'll study

This honours degree covers the technical, legal and managerial aspects of occupational health, safety and environmental protection. Modules combine classroom, online and workplace learning and typically include:

• Health and Safety Law and Regulation – principles of legal compliance, duty of care, and regulatory frameworks affecting workplaces.
• Risk Assessment and Control – methods for hazard identification, quantitative and qualitative risk assessment, control measures and behavioural approaches to safety.
• Environmental Management Systems – ISO 14001, pollution prevention, waste management, and environmental auditing.
• Occupational Hygiene and Ergonomics – exposure assessment for noise, chemicals and biological agents, plus human factors and workstation design.
• Accident Investigation and Incident Management – investigation techniques, root cause analysis, reporting and corrective action planning.
• Hazardous Substances and Process Safety – storage, transport and control of dangerous goods, process safety management, and control of flammable and toxic materials.
• Fire Safety and Emergency Planning – fire risk assessment, emergency preparedness and business continuity.
• Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility – sustainable practice, environmental impact appraisal and integrating HSE into organisational strategy.
• Research Project / Workplace-based Dissertation – a substantial piece of independent study or applied project based on a workplace problem or research question.

Delivery is modular and flexible: part-time students typically study one or two modules at a time, with a mix of evening/weekend sessions, block teaching and online learning. Assessment methods include coursework, practical assignments, workplace portfolios and a final honours project.

Entry requirements

The programme is aimed at mature and part-time learners, including those already working in occupational safety or environmental roles. Typical entry routes include a relevant HND, foundation degree or equivalent professional qualifications, plus evidence of workplace experience. Applicants without formal qualifications but with substantial relevant experience are considered through a recognition of prior learning (RPL) process.

Standard academic expectations include GCSE or equivalent passes in English and Mathematics. International applicants will need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved qualification or the University's accepted alternative.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across public and private sectors. Common career paths include:

• Health and Safety Advisor/Officer
• Environmental Manager or Advisor
• Safety Manager or Site Safety Coordinator
• HSE Consultant and Auditor
• Compliance Officer in industries such as construction, manufacturing, energy, maritime and utilities
• Emergency planning and resilience roles in local authorities and large organisations

The programme also supports continuing professional development: graduates frequently progress to professional body membership (for example through IOSH or IEMA) and take vocational qualifications such as NEBOSH to enhance technical credentials and career progression.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull offers flexible part-time study designed for working professionals, with modules taught by staff experienced in both academic research and applied HSE practice. The Faculty engages with regional and national employers, providing opportunities for workplace projects and industry-informed teaching. Students benefit from a practical emphasis, access to online learning resources and support services for part-time and mature learners, making the course applicable to real-world workplace challenges.