University of Arizona

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health and environmental science subjects with specialised training in environmental health hazards, exposure science and risk management. Typical modules cover environmental toxicology, exposure assessment and biomonitoring, environmental epidemiology, industrial hygiene and occupational health, environmental policy and regulation, environmental microbiology and fate and transport of contaminants.

Students develop quantitative skills through courses in biostatistics, environmental sampling methods, geographic information systems (GIS) and environmental modelling. Research methods and study design are emphasised, and many students undertake either a supervised thesis or an applied practicum/capstone project with partner agencies.

Hands-on laboratory and field training is an integral part of the programme, with opportunities to work on contaminant analysis, air and water quality monitoring, community exposure studies and health risk assessments. Elective options let students tailor their studies toward regulatory science, occupational safety, environmental justice or technical consultancy.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, public health, engineering or a closely related field. Admissions typically consider academic record, relevant coursework (for example in chemistry, biology or statistics), professional or research experience, letters of recommendation, a personal statement and a CV.

Some programmes may require or recommend prerequisite courses if an applicant’s background is not directly aligned. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Competitive candidates often have laboratory or field experience and coursework in quantitative subjects; some tracks may accept applicants with professional experience in lieu of some academic prerequisites.

Career prospects

Graduates work in a range of settings across public, private and non-profit sectors. Common roles include environmental health specialist, environmental consultant, industrial hygienist, exposure scientist, public health analyst, regulatory compliance officer and environmental risk assessor.

Employers include local and national public health agencies, environmental protection agencies, consulting firms, research institutes, industry health and safety departments, non-governmental organisations and academic or clinical research centres. Graduates are also well placed to continue to doctoral study or to pursue professional certification in industrial hygiene, environmental health, or related fields.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers interdisciplinary strengths in environmental and public health sciences, with faculty conducting applied research in areas such as contaminant fate and transport, exposure assessment and community health. The Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health and university research centres provide opportunities for collaborative projects and access to specialised laboratory and field resources.

The university’s location supports study of arid-land environmental issues, water quality and air pollution, and there are established partnerships with regional public health agencies, federal research programmes and environmental regulators that support practicum placements and applied research. Students benefit from a mix of rigorous academic training, practical experiential learning and professional networking to prepare for diverse environmental health careers.