University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme combines core environmental health science with applied skills in monitoring, assessment and management of environmental hazards. Typical modules cover environmental toxicology, exposure assessment, industrial hygiene, environmental epidemiology, risk assessment and environmental law and policy. Practical components commonly include laboratory techniques for environmental sampling and analysis, geographic information systems (GIS) for exposure mapping, quantitative methods and statistics for environmental data, and training in occupational safety principles.

Students normally complete a capstone or practicum placement with a public health agency, industry partner or research group; some pathways allow a research thesis. Elective options enable deeper study in areas such as air and water quality, hazardous waste management, indoor air quality, chemical risk communication and environmental justice.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, public health, engineering or a closely related discipline.
• A competitive academic record; programmes typically expect evidence of quantitative competency (for example coursework in statistics or calculus) and foundation science (biology or chemistry).
• Application materials usually include transcripts, a personal statement describing professional and academic goals, one or more letters of recommendation, and a current CV or résumé.
• Some applicants may be asked to submit GRE scores if standardised tests are required; check the programme’s admissions guidance for current policy.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent documentation where required.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue roles in public health agencies, environmental protection and regulation, industry, consulting and non‑profit organisations. Typical job titles include environmental health specialist, public health inspector, environmental compliance officer, industrial hygienist (often combined with further certification), environmental risk assessor, and safety officer.

Alumni work for local, state and federal agencies, environmental and engineering consultancies, manufacturing and resource industries, healthcare institutions and community organisations. The combination of laboratory, field and regulatory training also prepares graduates for doctoral study or research positions in exposure science and environmental epidemiology.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a programme emphasising applied, hands‑on training alongside interdisciplinary collaboration across public health, engineering and natural sciences. Small cohort sizes support close faculty supervision on practicum placements and research projects. The programme leverages regional partnerships for practical experience with public health departments, environmental regulators and private sector employers, helping students build professional networks and applied skills valued by employers.

Students benefit from laboratory instruction, field sampling opportunities and access to coursework in GIS and quantitative methods, equipping graduates to assess and manage environmental health risks in diverse settings.