University of Colorado Boulder

What you'll study

The programme combines core public and environmental health principles with applied methods for analysing how physical, chemical and biological hazards affect human populations. Typical modules and topics include:

• Exposure assessment and environmental monitoring — sampling design, analytical methods, personal exposure measurement and sample interpretation.
• Toxicology and environmental chemistry — dose–response relationships, fate and transport of contaminants, biomarkers and mechanistic toxicology.
• Epidemiology and biostatistics — study design, statistical analysis for environmental health data, causal inference and interpretation of population-level results.
• Risk assessment and management — quantitative risk characterisation, uncertainty analysis, regulatory frameworks and communication of risk to stakeholders.
• Air and water quality — sources and transformation of pollutants, indoor/outdoor air quality, water treatment and contaminant pathways.
• GIS and spatial analysis — spatial exposure modelling, mapping disease patterns and integrating environmental and health datasets.
• Policy, ethics and environmental justice — regulatory policy, ethical considerations in environmental health practice and working with affected communities.

The degree typically offers pathways for a research thesis or a professional/project option. Students can expect a mix of classroom instruction, laboratory or fieldwork, quantitative assignments and an independent capstone research project or practicum with external partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, engineering, public health or a related field. Typical admissions expectations include:

• A solid academic record at undergraduate level; departments consider the overall GPA and strength of quantitative and science coursework.
• Preparatory coursework or demonstrable competence in fundamental areas such as general chemistry, biology or ecology and college-level mathematics or statistics; additional prerequisites may be recommended if gaps exist.
• A personal statement describing research or professional interests in environmental health, and how the programme fits career goals.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential or relevant experience.
• Curriculum vitae/resume listing relevant laboratory, field, research or work experience.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, where required by university policy.

The programme may consider applicants with professional experience in lieu of some academic prerequisites; prospective students should consult admissions advisors about specific requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of careers across government, consulting, non-governmental organisations and research. Typical roles include:

• Environmental health scientist or specialist with public health departments and environmental protection agencies.
• Exposure scientist, industrial hygienist or occupational health practitioner in industry or consulting firms.
• Environmental consultant focused on site assessment, remediation planning and regulatory compliance.
• Risk assessor or toxicologist in regulatory agencies, private sector labs or non-profit organisations.
• Research scientist or laboratory specialist in universities, national laboratories or research institutes.
• Policy analyst or programme officer working on environmental regulation, sustainability initiatives or community health projects.

Skills gained—quantitative analysis, field and laboratory methods, GIS and science communication—are widely valued and support transitions into both applied roles and further doctoral study.

Why study at University of Colorado Boulder

University of Colorado Boulder offers an interdisciplinary environment with strong research strengths in atmospheric science, environmental chemistry, exposure science and ecosystem health. Students benefit from collaboration across relevant units and centres, access to advanced laboratory facilities, and opportunities for fieldwork in diverse nearby environments. The location also supports partnerships with state and regional environmental agencies, national laboratories and non-governmental organisations, providing pathways for practicum placements and applied research projects. Faculty engagement in both fundamental science and policy-relevant work helps prepare graduates for careers that bridge technical analysis and real-world decision-making.