Michigan Technological University

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework, practical laboratory experience and applied project work to develop technical and policy-facing skills. Typical modules cover exposure assessment, environmental toxicology, industrial hygiene, environmental epidemiology, environmental chemistry and fate and transport of contaminants. Students learn quantitative methods such as environmental sampling and analytical techniques, statistics for health sciences, risk assessment and modelling of contaminant behaviour.

There are both thesis and non-thesis options. Thesis students undertake original research under faculty supervision, while non-thesis students typically complete a professional project or practicum with a government agency, industry partner or community organisation. Electives allow specialisation in areas such as occupational health and safety, water quality management, air pollution control, hazardous waste management or environmental policy and law.

Entry requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in a related discipline (for example biology, chemistry, environmental science, engineering, public health or a closely related field).
• A competitive undergraduate record; many successful applicants will have relevant coursework in mathematics, chemistry and statistics.
• Academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research or professional goals, and letters of recommendation (typically two or three).
• Relevant professional or research experience is advantageous, particularly for applicants to the non-thesis/professional option.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency according to the university’s standard requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates work across public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include environmental health specialist, industrial hygienist, exposure scientist, environmental consultant, regulatory compliance officer, water quality scientist and public health analyst. Alumni find employment with local and national public health agencies, environmental protection organisations, consulting firms, manufacturing and resource industries, and non-governmental organisations. The degree also provides a pathway to doctoral study for those interested in academic or advanced research careers.

Why study at Michigan Technological University

Michigan Technological University is known for its applied research emphasis and strong connections between engineering, natural sciences and public health practice. Students benefit from hands-on laboratory facilities and field opportunities, including access to Great Lakes research environments and regional industrial contexts that support real-world projects. The university’s collaborative departments and research centres enable interdisciplinary supervision and internships, and graduate students often secure teaching or research assistantships to support their studies while gaining practical experience.

Located in a region with varied environmental challenges and resources, Michigan Tech provides a setting well suited to training environmental health professionals who need both technical skills and applied, place-based experience.