California Polytechnic State University, Pomona

What you'll study

Coursework typically covers core topics that build situational awareness and technical competence rather than deep specialization. Typical subject areas include:

• Foundations of environmental health — basic concepts of contaminants, exposure routes, and health effects.
• Environmental regulations and policy — overview of local, state, and federal frameworks governing air, water, and waste.
• Inspection and sampling practices — methods for identifying hazards, conducting site assessments, and basic environmental sampling principles.
• Environmental microbiology and toxicology basics — introductory principles relevant to public health investigations.
• Risk communication and community health — communicating hazards and mitigation to diverse audiences.

Entry requirements

As a declared minor, entry usually requires that students be enrolled in a compatible bachelor’s program at the university and meet any prerequisite coursework specified by the department (often introductory biology, chemistry, or related general education courses). Students should consult the campus catalog or academic advisor to confirm prerequisites and how the minor fits with degree progress and unit limits.

Career prospects

The minor equips students with complementary skills attractive to employers in public health departments, environmental consulting firms, regulatory agencies, and industry health and safety units. Graduates may be better prepared for roles such as environmental technician, health inspector trainee, regulatory compliance assistant, or to continue toward professional environmental health certification or graduate study.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Funding opportunities for students pursuing an environmental health minor are typically campus-wide scholarships, departmental awards, or external grants and internships tied to public health, environmental science, or community service. Students should explore undergraduate scholarships, work-study, and paid internship programs with local health departments or environmental organizations to offset costs while gaining practical experience.