Environmental Public Health
Employment of environmental scientists and specialists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Heightened public interest in the hazards facing the environment, as well as increasing demands placed on the environment by population growth, are expected to spur demand for environmental scientists and specialists.*
Environmental public health focuses on the relationships between people and their environment. It promotes human health and well-being; and fosters healthy and safe communities. Environmental health is a key part of any comprehensive public health system.
The field works to advance policies and programs to reduce chemical and other environmental exposures in air, water, soil and food to protect people and provide communities with healthier environments.
Practitioners in the field also work towards strategies and education that prevent widespread transmission of communicable and other diseases.
This major has no special requirements. Any day student in good academic standing may enroll.
*View the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Environmental Scientists and Specialists (visited April 29, 2019).
Career Opportunities
- Environmental health technicians
- Environmental scientists
- Public health researchers
- Health program coordinators
- Public health information officers
- Conservation officers
- In public policy administration
Experiential Opportunities
You'll be required to complete a capstone project for this major, such as an internship. Some example include working in public health departments, not-for-profit organizations focused on food access, water treatment facilities, and parks and services.
