Key Takeaways:

• University of Washington and Purdue University have two of the top occupational health and safety programs in the USA.
• Occupational Health and Safety degrees train specialists to improve workplace safety and health, and they offer master’s degrees with a focus on preventing workplace accidents and illnesses.
• The programs are ranked based on criteria such as cost, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from reputable education ratings​.

The best Occupational Health and Safety programs are master’s degrees that train experts to examine, analyze, and develop safety measures. Health and safety in the workplace have a long history of accidents and illnesses associated with dangerous and unhealthy work environments.

Some of the images that come to mind are of miners working underground in poorly ventilated and unsafe shafts. Maybe you think of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in 1911. The fire killed 146 women locked in rooms by factory owners to prevent theft. Or, maybe the physical malformations that inflicted the Radium Girls in 1917 while painting watch faces with radioactive paint to illuminate the dials come to mind. The examples are, unfortunately, many.

Best Health Degrees has researched schools to identify some of the best master’s degree programs in Occupational Health and Safety for your graduate program search. We compressed information to provide a general idea of graduate coursework, admission requirements, cost, and school reputability.

Our Method: Ranking the 25 Best Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs

To rank the 25 Best Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs, Best Health Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential. We use data from IPEDS, Niche, US News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

1. University of Washington

You’ll want to explore this Master of Public Health in Occupational Health and Environmental Medicine from this globally ranked Department of Environmental & Occupational Health Sciences (DEOHS) at Seattle’s University of Washington.

This is a broad, preventive medicine specialty degree that provides training in the evaluation and treatment of environmental and occupational exposures. You’ll take core courses covering:

• local and global perspectives
• ethics
• communication skills
• leadership

Among the classes are:

• Toxic Chemicals and Human Health
• Microbiome and Environmental Health
• Introduction to Environmental Safety
• Chemical Sampling & Analysis
• Disasters and Public Health

This experience will take the form of either a research thesis or a practice-based project. The practice project is a supervised, field study.

You’ll need to be accepted into the Occupational and Environmental Medicine Residency Program, Applied Science Accreditation Commission of ABET, or Madigan Preventive Medicine and Public Health Residency Program to apply for this program. Requirements for acceptance include a baccalaureate degree from an accredited program and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The application requires an $85 fee, as well as academic transcripts, CV/resume, letters of reference, personal history statement, and a statement of purpose.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $13,406-$44,640/per academic year

Fast Facts: UW is ranks #7 in Global Universities by U.S. News and World Report and #20 in its Best Value Schools

School website

2. Purdue University

You can earn a master’s in Occupational and Environmental Health Science with this program from one of the nation’s top universities.

Holding accreditation from the Applied Science Accreditation Commission of ABET, this degree offers a thesis and non-thesis option which requires two years for completion. Among the curriculum’s courses are studied in:

• Introduction to Occupational and Environmental Safety
• Fundamentals of Epidemiology
• Toxicology
• Advanced Topics in Exposure Assessment
• Responsible Conduct of Research
• Advanced Industrial Hygiene Control Technology

Depending on the track you select, you’ll complete an MS project under faculty supervision or you’ll conduct thesis research. The program’s designed to lead to the Qualified Academic Program (QAP) certification offered by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), and meets the requirements for the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification.

Admission to the Graduate School at the West Lafayette campus requires an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 GPA, submission of academic transcripts, GRE test scores, letters of recommendation, resume, as well as a diversity essay. You’ll also need to file an application along with a $60 application fee.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,992-$28,010/per academic year

Fast Facts: This is the only ABET-accredited program in industrial hygiene at both undergraduate and graduate levels and Purdue is ranked in the top 10 Best Public Institutions by the Wall Street Journal

School website

3. University of Michigan Ann Arbor

If you’re looking to make a difference in workplace safety, you’ll want to review the Occupational Safety Engineering and Ergonomics (OSE) master’s degree from UM-Ann Arbor. This degree offers a focus in applied ergonomics which will help you design safe and efficient workplaces.

You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in physical science or engineering to qualify for this program and you could complete the program in 10-16 months. Classes include studies in:

• Measure & Design of Work
• Automotive Human Factors
• Human Factors in Engineering Systems
• Industrial Engineering Instrumentation Methods
• Biomechanics, Occupational Safety Ergonomics
• Seminar in Occupational Health and Safety Engineering
• a Directed Research/Professional Project

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) designates UM’s Center for Occupational Health and Safety Engineering (COHSE) is a NIOSH Education and Research Center (ERC). 

This program is through the Department of Industrial and Operations Engineering. So, individuals should apply for admission through the Rackham Graduate School. Additionally, students do not need GRE test scores for 2022. But applicants must submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statements of purpose, and a personal statement.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $18,346-$49,120/per academic year

Fast Facts: U.S. News and World Report ranks UM-AA at #7 in Best Engineering Schools and the university ranks #3 in Top Public Schools

School website

4. Texas A&M University

Here’s an MPH degree with an Occupational Health and Safety concentration from this nationally ranked Texas university.

You’ll develop your 45-credit-hour degree plan, along with an advisor, from the program’s robust curriculum. Among the lecture courses are studied in:

• Occupational Biomechanics
• Industrial Hygiene
• Environmental and Occupational Diseases
• Ergonomics of the Upper Extremities
• Framing and Persuasion: Public Health in the Public Sphere
• Assessment and Intervention: Wicked Problems in Public Health

Students do not need to complete a thesis but do need applied practical experience and a capstone project.

Applicants do not need the GRE for admission. But, prospective students need to complete a SOPHAS application (with a $65 fee), submit letters of recommendation, official transcripts, as well as a statement of purpose.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $28,158-$55,608/per academic year

Fast Facts: Forbes ranks TAMU in the top 20 of the nation’s Top Public Schools and U.S. News and World Report considers the university as one of the top 100 Most Innovative Schools

School website

5. University of Utah

Through its School of Medicine’s Rocky Mountain Center for Occupational and Environmental Health (RMCOEH), this university awards an MS in Occupational Health (MSOH) and offers five concentrations in:

• Industrial Hygiene
• Ergonomics
• Occupational Injury Prevention Research Training
• Occupational Safety
• General Occupational Health

It’s possible to complete this MSOH in 12 months of full-time enrollment and complete it with a summative exam. The concentrations share some required coursework in Applied Occupational Biostatistics, Administration and Management of Health and Safety Programs, Ergonomics, etc.

Individual concentrations offer specific courses such as:

• Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene
• Occupational Epidemiology
• Advanced Industrial Hygiene

Only Occupational Medicine requires a research project. However, students must complete the two-part summative examination, which includes core exam topics and emphasis on specific subjects.

Admission to the program requires an application and a $55 fee. General graduate application materials include a baccalaureate degree from an accredited school with a 3.0 GPA. Additional items students need to submit include a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and GRE or GMAT scores. The school may request other documents.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,004-$31,748/per academic year

Fast Facts: The University of Utah ranks in the top 100 of U.S. News and World Report’s National Universities. And, it is #190 in Money’s Best Colleges 2020-21 ranking

School website

6. Rutgers University

The premier university of New Jersey, Rutgers’ School of Public Health offers a 45-credit hour, Master of Public Health with an Occupational Safety and Health focus.

The curriculum offers both on-campus and online coursework for this degree. You’ll take core courses in:

• Introduction to Environmental Safety
• Social and Behavioral Health Sciences in Public Health
• Leadership, and Management Essentials for Public Health
• Health Systems and Policy Principles and Methods of Epidemiology

Among the courses offered in the concentration study in Environmental and Occupational Health Practice, Environmental Risk Assessment, Principles of Occupational Health, and more. You’ll also participate in an Applied Practicum Experience (APE) which is followed by a Capstone Project.

You’ll apply through SOPHAS. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree, and submit academic transcripts, a personal statement of purpose, and letters of reference. GRE test scores are optional and not required for this MPH.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $35,758/per academic year

Fast Facts: U.S. News and World Report rates this #31 in its Graduate School rankings for Public Health and Forbes ranks Rutgers at #212 in its Top Colleges.

School website

7. University of Illinois Chicago

UI Chicago’s Environmental Occupational and Health Sciences (EOHS) advanced degree has multiple options. The School of Public Health has a Master of Public Health with an Occupational Safety Concentration and a Master of Science which concentrates on Environmental Occupational and Health Sciences.

The MPH degree will examine toxicity and injury issues, risk management, as well as exposure, and risk assessment. The MS program is research and management-oriented, looking at policymaking, labs, and corporate environments. Some of the courses listed in the course catalog are topics in:

• Systems Approach in Environmental and Occupational Health
• Principles of Environmental Health Sciences
• Public Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Systems Approach in Environmental and Occupational Health
• Occupational and Environmental Disease
• Industrial Hygiene Laboratory
• Ergonomics and Human Factors

The MPH Handbook and MS Handbook are excellent resources for in-depth degree information.

UI-C utilizes SOPHAS for admission to the university and a supplemental application (requiring a $70 fee). Other required documents include academic transcripts, personal statements, letters of reference, and a resume or CV. The school may require other information as your application is reviewed.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $5,935-$12,369/per academic year

Fast Facts: UI-C ranks #16 in Best Graduate Schools for Public Health by U.S. News and World Report and in the top 100 U.S. Colleges by The Times Higher Education rankings

School website

8. University of South Florida

Are you looking for a program that offers a foundational degree blending public health and technical sciences? If so, then check out this MPH with an Environmental and Occupational Health concentration from this highly ranked Florida school.

This 42-credit hour curriculum has a core, required, and concentration studies. Core classes involve studies in:

• History and Systems of Public Health
• Translation to Public Health Practice
• Population Assessment

Courses in an emphasis include:

• Environmental Occupational Health Risk Assessment
• Environmental Occupational Toxicology
• Principles of Environmental Health

You’ll also enroll in elective courses that will support your concentration. Additionally, the degree culminates with a Comprehensive Exam.

Applicants for this program will submit an application through SOPHAS for admission. You won’t need to provide GRE test scores, but you will need to provide a resume or CV, a personal statement, and also two letters of recommendation. Furthermore, applicants submit academic transcripts through SOPHAS.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $348-$431/per credit hour

Fast Facts: USF ranks #35 in Niche’s Best Colleges for Public Health and #20 in Best Public Health Graduate Schools by U.S. News and World Report

School website

9. University of Houston Clear Lake

The MS in Occupational Safety and Health is through the College of Science and Engineering of UHCL. This program prepares students for a variety of health and safety careers. Furthermore, students can choose concentrations in:

• Industrial Hygiene
• Safety
• Process Safety Management
• Occupational Health and Safety

The last specialty is online.

You have the option of a thesis or non-thesis degree (online students aren’t eligible for the thesis option). Foundational prerequisites are necessary for general physics and chemistry, and you need to have completed algebra or pre-calculus. The MS OSHE requires courses in Statistical Analysis, Applied Statistics, and Research Methods. This program offers robust coursework in the concentrations which will provide you with a solid foundation for your professional goals. Non-thesis students must complete a Capstone Project.

For admission consideration, apply through ApplyTexas (with a $45 fee), official academic transcripts (and a 3.0 GPA) from your conferred bachelor’s degree, and required GMAT, GRE, or MAT scores. Prospective students also need a personal statement and letters of recommendation.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,340-$20,418/per academic year

Fast Facts: UHCL has accreditation from ABET and also ranks #48 in U.S. News and World Report’s Top Public School for Regional Universities West.

School website

10. University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center awards an MS in Industrial and Environmental Health Sciences and an MPH in Environmental Health degree through its School of Public Health. The MS degree holds Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET accreditation and the MPH is Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredited.

You’ll need to complete a minimum of 45-credit hours for either degree. The MPH curriculum is comprised of core courses in Environmental Safety and Health, Principles of Epidemiology, and also Qualitative Methods. Other studies in EH will involve studies in:

• Principles of Environmental Health and Safety Management
• Occupational and Environmental Law

A practicum experience is part of the program. The MS curriculum lists Noise and Radiation Hazards, Biostatistics Methods, Occupational and Environmental Toxicology, and Environmental Health in its requirements and the MS requires Field Practice.

A SOPHAS application is required along with a supplemental application for admission. You’ll be asked for a goal statement, letters of recommendation, and a resume/CV. MPH students are NOT required to submit GRE test scores, but MS students DO need to provide their scores.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $22,122/per academic year

Fast Facts: U.S. News and World Report ranks this #82 in its Best Graduate Schools for Public Health and is Oklahoma’s only CEPH accredited School of Public Health

School website

11. Louisiana Tech University – New Orleans

LSU Health in New Orleans awards a 46-credit hour MPH Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences (ENHS). This is one of the best occupational health and safety programs available.

All MPH students take core coursework in topics such as:

• Foundations and Ethics in Public Health
• Biologic Basis of Health
• Principles of Environmental Health
• Principles of Epidemiology
• Behavioral Science Theories in Public Health Practice

Required studies in the ENHS curriculum include Principles of Occupational Health and Health Risk Assessment & Management along with electives chosen from a range of subject matters. Also required for the degree are a practicum and culminating experiences. The curriculum design qualifies you to sit for national certification exams in toxicology, and also public health.

You’ll begin the admission process by filing a SOPHAS application. Be prepared to submit academic transcripts from your bachelor’s program, resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and also a statement of purpose.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $50,220/per academic year

Fast Facts: U.S. News and World Report ranks this school #60 in its Graduate Schools of Public Health. Additionally, the program has accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

School website

12. California State University – Northridge

If you want a program that will prepare you to safeguard communities, corporations, industries, and employers from biological, chemical, and physical dangers, you should explore the MS in Environmental and Occupational Health from CSUN.

This MS thesis program requires 35-credit hours of online coursework, electives, and culminating experience. You can expect to take courses in:

• Environmental and Occupational Health Concepts
• Research Design
• Research Methodology

You’ll also take Administration of Environmental and Occupational Health Programs, Critical Review of the Technical Literature in EOH, and a Supervised Field Training experience in selected organizations or agencies. You’re able to choose from a wide slate of electives to complete the degree.

Admission to CSUN requires you to have a conferred bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA. In addition, you must make an application through Cal State Apply. The department looks at your overall GPA and science GPA, your work experience in EOH (or related field), a statement of purpose, and also lower-division core science classes.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $22,324 per academic year

Fast Facts: Forbes ranks CSUN #147 in its Top Colleges 2021 and Money ranks it #45 in its 2020 Best Colleges category.

School website

13. Colorado State University

Fort Collins Colorado State University awards an MS in Environmental Health. Offered through the Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, this is one of the nation’s largest environmental health degrees. You can also choose from specializations in:

• Industrial Hygiene
• Occupational Ergonomics and Safety
• Epidemiology

Depending on your specialty, you’ll be able to take courses in:

• Environmental Health Risk Assessment
• Industrial Hygiene
• Principles of Ergonomics
• Occupational Safety
• Environment, Safety, and Health 3 Management
• Biological Basis of Public Health
• Environmental and Occupational Health Issues

A full slate of electives is available to round out your studies. This is a thesis program, regardless of your specialty area, and courses are available in research methods and data analysis.

You’ll need to be admitted by the Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences. However, you also submit the application for the CSU Graduate Admission. The application has a $60 fee requirement. GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and academic transcripts must accompany the application.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $15,886-$$39,196/per academic year

Fast Facts: CSU is in the top 30 percent of Best Bang for the Buck by Washington Monthly. It is also in the top 35 percent Best Public schools by U.S. News and World Report.

School website

14. Oregon State University

Here’s a 60-credit hours MPH option in Environmental and Occupational Health from the nationally recognized Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon.

With this program, you’ll gain an interdisciplinary education that will prepare you to identify issues in occupational health and safety, as well as assessment, risk, and management. Core studies are:

• Integrated Approach to Public Health
• Introduction to Biostatistics
• Physical Agents and Human Health
• Air Quality and Human Health
• Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Management

Elective coursework may include studies in:

• Environment, Safety and Health Policy & Law
• Toxic Substances in Food
• Food Law
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology

You’ll also complete an internship and an Integrative Learning Experience.

Admission to the College of Public Health and Human Sciences will require you to apply via SOPHAS, which will ask for academic transcripts, a personal statement, a resume/CV, and letters of recommendation. Additionally, you’ll need to have an awarded bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA and submit a supplemental application. GRE test scores are not required.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $16,137-$44,598/per academic year

Fast Facts: U.S. News and World Report rates this program #60 in its Best Graduate Public Health programs and Niche ranks it as one of the Best Colleges for Public Health in America

School website

15. University of Minnesota – Duluth

You’ll want to check out the MS in Environmental Health and Safety (MEHS) which can lead to a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) designation.

Among the core courses, you’ll take are:

• Principles of Industrial Hygiene
• Environmental Safety and Legal Implications
• System Safety and Loss Control Techniques
• Fire Prevention and Emergency Preparedness
• Organization and Administration of Safety Programs

You can choose from numerous courses in Transportation Safety, Principles of Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality, and also Occupational Biomechanics and Work Physiology. To complete the curriculum, graduate students must complete an Internship in Environmental Health and Safety.

To apply to this occupational safety program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree. The preferred bachelor’s degrees are in engineering, science, or similar EHS fields. Applicants also need to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a resume or CV. The school may request additional requirements along with the UMD Graduate School application.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $17,580-$27,204/per academic year

Fast Facts: UMD is one of U.S. News and World Report’s Best Value Schools and a top Public School

School website

16. East Carolina University

Located in Greenville, North Carolina, ECU offers an MS in Environmental Health (MSEH). East Carolina’s program is presently one of eight graduate programs that has accreditation from the National Environmental Health Sciences Protection and Accreditation Council (NEHSPAC). Furthermore, it is the only online master’s degree with that accreditation.

You’ll complete 35 credit hours for this program, 26 hours of which include core coursework. Classes in the core are:

• Introduction to Epidemiology
• Principles of Toxicology
• Biostatistics for Health Professionals
• Topics in Environmental Health and Safety
• Environmental Health Program Management

You’ll also have a variety of electives from which to choose in areas such as solid and waste management, epidemiology, food safety, public health, and others. You can either write a professional paper in Environmental Health or complete a thesis. Regardless of their choice, prospective graduates must orally defend the thesis or paper.

ECU Graduate School admission will request you complete an application. The College of Health and Human Performance requires specific admission criteria for this graduate degree which requires you to hold a bachelor’s degree, complete a supplemental application, and provide letters of reference, a resume, as well as a statement of purpose. Applications require a $75 processing fee.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,593-$23,870/per academic year

Fast Facts: ECU ranks #107 in Top Public Schools by U.S. News and World Report. It also ranks in The Princeton Review’s Best 387 Colleges for 2022.

School website

17. Rochester Institute of Technology

This MS in Environmental Health and Safety is on the Rochester, NY campus, online, or a combination of the two. You’ll find this program provides insight into the development, management, and also sustainability of environmental and safety measures.

You can choose between a thesis, comprehensive exam, or capstone project program option. Coursework offers studies in:

• EHS Management System Design
• Environmental, Health and Safety Management
• EHS Internal Auditing
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Integrating EHS Management

Depending on your option, you’ll take Thesis Planning or Graduate Project. To graduate, students need to complete 30-credit hours and three hours in a Professional Elective.

Graduate Admission requires general application materials such as a conferred bachelor’s degree, personal statement, and undergraduate academic transcripts. If needed, the school may request additional materials, such as GRE scores. You can complete the $75 application online.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $60,774/per academic year

Fast Facts: RIT ranks #57 in U.S. News and World Report’s Most Innovation Schools and Forbes lists RIT at #177 in its Top Colleges in 2021

School website

18. University of Cincinnati

Through its College of Medicine, UC awards an MPH with an Occupational Public Health concentration. This degree is for students who have completed a clinical year. You’ll also complete the Occupational Medicine Residency Training Program.

A 42-credit hour program, the curriculum for the Occupational Public Health, is comprehensive and includes core studies in:

• Environmental Public Health
• Health Systems & Policy
• Introduction to Qualitative Methods
• Social & Behavioral Foundations of Public Health

The concentration offers Principles of Occupational Exposure Assessment, Safety and Ergonomics, Occupational Health Management, and an Applied Practice Experience as well as an Integrated Learning Experience. The latter offers a choice between a thesis or capstone project option.

As with many other public health programs, you’ll make applications through SOPHAS. The college encourages students with a bachelor’s degree (and 3.0 GPA) and an interest in public health to apply. Applicants do not need to provide GRE scores. However, they should submit official academic transcripts, personal statements, CV or resume, and also letters of recommendation. Additionally, the school may ask students to submit a supplemental application to the UC Graduate School.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $13,976-$29,310/per academic year

Fast Facts: The University of Cincinnati ranks in the top 30% of U.S. News and World Report’s Best Colleges and is #55 in Niche’s Top Public Universities in America ranking

School website

19. University of Toledo

If you’re wanting to focus on Industrial Hygiene, you may want to look at the MS in Occupational Health (MSOH). The curriculum is designed to qualify you to sit for certification, such as the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (CSP) as well as the  American Board of Industrial Hygiene (CIH).

Coursework in the MSOH with Industrial Hygiene caters to those with little to no experience while providing seasoned professionals with current knowledge and skills enhancement. The overall graduate plan for this degree includes coursework in:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Chemical Agents
• Hazard Control
• Risk Assessment
• Epidemiology
• Biological Agents

You can opt to write a thesis or do a scholarly project. Those with less than a year of experience must complete an internship. Classes are on weekends and evenings to accommodate those working full-time.

To apply, students submit proof of a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA, recommendation letters, official academic transcripts, a resume or CV, a personal statement, and an application for admission consideration. Applicants do not need to send in GRE scores. Be sure to review the undergraduate foundation courses needed to apply to this program.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $16,731-$38,292/per academic year

Fast Facts: the University of Toledo is ranked in the top 100 public universities by Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education

School website

20. Eastern Kentucky University

The College of Health Sciences at this Richmond, Kentucky university awards a Master of Public Health with an Environmental or Occupational Health & Sustainability specialty. This program offers classes in the evening, on Saturdays, and online for the convenience of working adults.

The CEPH accredited program has core classes and curriculum in:

• Biostatistics
• Public Health Organization and Administration
• Introduction to Environmental Health
• Research Methods in Public Health
• a Capstone Project

Studies in your concentration will cover Air Quality Assessment, Total Worker Health, and Environmental Toxicology. You’ll also complete an Environmental Health Applied Practice Experience and an Integrative Learning Experience prior to graduation. The department also offers an Industrial Hygiene Graduate Certificate.

Besides the application, applicants must submit proof of a bachelor’s degree, a statement of personal and professional goals, letters of recommendation, and also academic transcripts for admission. Also, the school may ask for additional documentation if needed.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,020-$13,950/per academic year

Fast Facts: EKU ranks at #40 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Value Schools category and #25 in the publication’s Top Public Schools rankings

School website

21. Indiana State University

Whether you’re looking for an MA or MS in Occupational Safety Management, Indiana State University has a degree for you. You even have the option to attend classes on the Terre Haute campus or 100% online.

The 33-credit hours curriculum requires research classes in Statistics for Experimental Research in Technology and Research Methods. You’ll then choose 12 hours from several subjects such as:

• Human Factors/Ergonomics in Safety Management
• Process Safety and Hazardous Waste Operations Management
• Safety Legislation, Litigation, and Compliance
• Administration Procedures for Occupational Safety Management

Students can take other courses outside of the department with approval and electives from within the College of Technology. The MA track requires you to complete a thesis and the MS calls for you to complete a field research project.

Prospective students must make an application for admission before the school considers them for admission. Masters students must hold a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.7 GPA. You may need to provide GRE scores and other documents so you’ll want to discuss admission procedures with an advisor from the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $432-$562/per credit hour (NOTE: there is no residency requirement for online students)

Fast Facts: This program is accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE) and USI is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

School website

22. East Tennessee State University

ETSU, located in Johnson City in upper East Tennessee, awards an MPH in Environmental Health developed to prepare you for administrative positions in environmental health.

You begin the 43-credit hour program with core courses in:

• Analytical Methods in Public Health
• Health Systems, Regulations, and Policies
• Community-Based Methods in Public Health
• Health Leadership & Management

Some of the concentration classes are studies in:

• Public Health Law
• Toxicology
• Environmental Health Administration
• Environmental Health Practice
• a seminar

Additionally, you’ll take electives, complete a field experience, and complete the program with a Capstone Project.

Admission to the program requires both a minimum undergraduate degree GPA of 2.75 and letters of recommendation. However, applicants do not need to submit scores for admission. However, students with a GPA lower than the minimum required also may want to send in standardized test cores. Also, the application is through SOPHAS.

Estimated Tuition Costs: $10,994-$15,194 per academic year

Fast Facts: Ranks #82 Best Graduate Public Health program by U.S. News and World Report. ETSU is also one of Forbes‘ Best Public Colleges.

School website

23. Western Kentucky University

You can earn an MS in Environmental & Occupational Health Science from this Bowling Green, Kentucky university taking 36 credit hours to complete. This master’s degree in health and safety program is 100% online.

Among the courses in this degree program are:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Principles of Environmental Health
• Biostatistics for Public Health
• Health Promotion in the Workplace
• Epidemiology: Practice and Theory

You’ll also be able to enroll in EOHS electives from among the many offered courses such as  Industrial Hygiene, Public Health Management of Disasters, Air Quality Management, and more. With advisor approval, you’ll also be able to take non-departmental electives Health Behavior, Advanced Biostatistics, Advanced Epidemiology, etc. Either a thesis, internship, or applied experience culminates your degree. Professional certificate classes are available in Environmental Health and Safety and Workplace Health Promotion.

You’ll create an application account to begin the admission process. Graduate School admission requirements include a resume/CV, written personal statement, two professional references, and one of five academic requirements as stated on the Graduate School webpage.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $14,136-$23,760/per academic year

Fast Facts: WKU ranks #521 Top Colleges for 2021 by Forbes and #158 in Best Graduate Public Health Schools by U.S. News and World Report

School website

24. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

If your career goals include leadership roles you’ll want to explore this Occupational Safety and Health, Master of Science program from SOSU in Durant, Oklahoma. This program is online.

Among the courses, you’ll take are:

• Occupational Safety Statistics
• Philosophy of Safety Management
• Industrial Hygiene
• Toxicology,
• Advanced Ergonomic Engineering
• Crisis Preparedness and Occupational Security
• HAZMAT

Industrial Hygiene and HAZMAT include labs conducted on one weekend. Each semester offers courses in Current Literature review and Internships in Occupational Safety. If you pursue a thesis track, you’ll complete Research in Occupational Safety. The program is 35 credit hours long and includes general education courses.

SOSU uses a two-tier admission process. You’ll begin by completing the Graduate School application and you must have an undergraduate degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA. The school may request GRE test scores. Additionally, the OSH department requires certain admission criteria as well.

Estimated Tuition Costs: $236-$554/per credit hour

Fast Facts: Niche ranks SOSU #695 Colleges with the Best Academics in America and U.S. News and World Report ranks it #50-#66 Top Public Schools

School website

25. Keene State College

Offered through the School of Sciences, Sustainability, and Health of this New Hampshire public institution, you can earn an MS in Safety and Occupational Health Applied Sciences in 36 credit hours.

The curriculum has classes on Current Issues in:

• Safety
• Best Practices in Safety
• Safety Management Systems
• Advanced Safety Research
• Risk and Safety
• Applied Occupational Health
• Legal and Ethical Issues

You’ll also complete a Capstone Experience or graduate practicum experience or applied safety research to finish the program. This degree is for both the seasoned professional and the student looking to become health and safety of employees from a variety of perspectives.

Admission requires you to hold a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2.5 GPA, provide an essay and goal statement, and three professional recommendations. Those applicants with a previous internship and or work experience get preference.

Estimated Tuition Costs: $12,048-$24,406/per academic year

Fast Facts: KSU ranks in the top 10 Regional Colleges North by U.S. News and World Report and the Best Value Colleges in America by Niche

School website

What is Occupational Safety and Health?

In 1970, President Richard Nixon signed into US law, the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), to develop and maintain regulations and health standards across the board for employees. This act created a federal overseer to ensure employees work in safe and healthy environments. Colleges and universities devote academic programs to this field. They train experts to examine, analyze, and develop safety measures across a wide spectrum of settings.

Why Should You Get a Master’s in Occupational Safety?

The answer to this question is dependent on your career goals. Sure, you can find employment in this field with a high school diploma, or a bachelor’s or associate degree, but an advanced degree will allow advancement in your profession and demonstrate to your employer that you have a commitment to your specialty. Earning your graduate safety practitioner designation prepares you for Certified Safety Practitioner (CSP).

Having a master’s degree may allow you to assume more responsibility and move up in your company, which typically equates to more money and job security. You’ll gain the tools and skills necessary to effect genuine change in your field to identify health and safety concerns, develop procedures, change organizational culture, and also assure OSHA compliance. Many master’s programs in the field also meet OSHA certification standards.

What Do You Learn in a Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety USA?

Occupational safety is an interdisciplinary profession. It combines physics, biology, and chemistry with engineering and technology, along with legal aspects, to reduce workplace accidents. Students interested in an online occupational safety program take general education courses and then concentration classes in an area of focus. Listed below are some of the common classes students take.

• Safety in the Laboratory
• Health Education and Medical Terminology
• Responsible Conduct in Research
• Systems Safety Program
• Industrial Safety Chemistry
• Health Technology
• Statistical Methods for Biology
• Contemporary Safety Topics
• Environmental Applied Sciences
• Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences
• Environmental Risk Assessment
• Advanced Topics in Exposure Assessment
• Industrial Hygiene Control Technology
• Emergency Systems
• Fire Science
• Advanced Industrial Hygiene Instrumentation Techniques
• Fundamentals of Epidemiology
• Physical Agents in Environmental Health
• Aerosol Science
• Occupational Safety and Management Culture
• Toxicology
• Introduction to Environmental Health
• Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Laboratory
• Seminar in Health Sciences
• safety training strategies
• occupational therapy
• workplace safety standards
• safety procedures

Where Can You Work in Occupational Safety?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are several OSH careers available, and one that should meet your goals. You can typically find employment in the manufacturing industry, construction, hospitals or health systems, local, state, and federal government agencies, and consulting services.

What Does an Occupational Health Professional Do?

Perhaps, the best description is from Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA). In general, a professional safety specialist develops and enforces safety regulations. These environmental professionals put processes in place, analyze and write reports, and investigate accidents, incidents, or complaints.

What are Careers in Occupational Safety?

Individuals with occupational safety degrees understand loss control management, accident prevention, and also safety technology. Some professionals with occupational safety degrees focus on specific areas like construction safety, safety and health management, or also environmental management. A safety degree online program can also lead to a safety career in hazardous materials management using hazard control technology. Also, a Safety Specialist and a Safety Technician are two common roles.

Other careers, as listed by the BLS, include Construction and Building Inspectors, Environmental Science and Protection, Fire Inspectors, Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Health and Safety Engineers, or Emergency Management Directors, and more. Job titles include Industrial Hygienist, Safety Engineer, Environmental Health and Safety Director or Manager, Risk Manager, and also Safety Coordinator.

What is the Job Outlook?

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 14 percent job growth rate for occupations in the occupational health and safety field, which is as fast as the national average. Job demand varies from one geographic region to another and also by industry. Around 40 percent of jobs in occupational health and safety are in the manufacturing and government sectors. 

How Much Can You Make? 

In general, the BLS cites salaries for Occupational Health and Safety professions ranging from $83,910 to $130,460, depending on your education, job title, and place of employment. Entry-level positions pay less than those of safety specialists with experience.

• Construction and Building Inspectors – Average Yearly Salary $72,120
• Environmental Science and Protection – Average Yearly Salary $49,490
• Fire Inspectors – Average Yearly Salary $75,480
• Environmental Scientists and Specialists – Average Yearly Salary $80,060
• Health and Safety Engineers – Average Yearly Salary $109,660
• Emergency Management Directors – Average Yearly Salary $86,130

Indeed publishes a nationwide median salary of $87,547, and PayScale suggests an average salary of $85,327 depending on your specialty and location.

Why is Accreditation Important?

All the programs we rank have accreditation from independent agencies. They include The National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC) or Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), and also other Department of Education recognized groups. Also the Applied Science Accreditation Commission or ABET website.

How Much Does a Degree Cost?

Prospective students should apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Furthermore, some schools might require the FAFSA on file for departmental scholarships or stipends. Also, you may be eligible for graduate student loans.

Additional Programs

Below is a list of additional schools that offer Occupational Health and Safety degree programs.

• Slippery Rock University – Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania
• Ohio University
• Central Washington University
• Pennsylvania Indiana University
• Illinois State University
• Missouri University
• Fairmont State University

Related:

• Best Master’s Online in Occupational Health and Safety Programs
• Fastest Online Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety
• Fastest Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety Degree Programs

The post 25 Best Occupational Health and Safety Programs in the USA appeared first on The Best Health Degrees.

Key Takeaways:

• This article focuses on colleges offering undergraduate safety degrees. Notable schools include Purdue University, University of Houston, and Sacramento State University.  
• Bachelor’s degrees in Occupational Health and Safety address workplace health and safety issues.
• Safety programs are ranked based on factors like cost, reputation, and salary potential after graduation.
• Featured safety degrees include hands-on experience through internships and are often accredited, enhancing career prospects.

The best Colleges with Safety Degrees have occupational safety degrees to meet the needs of health and safety issues in the workplace. Health and safety issues in the workplace can be traced a long history of accidents and illnesses associated with dangerous and unhealthy work environments.

In 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries in 2019, citing a horrifying statistic that “…a worker died every 99 minutes from a work-related injury in 2019.”

Best Health Degrees has done an internet search of schools to identify some of the best bachelor’s degree programs in Occupational Health and Safety to aid in your school search. We compressed information to provide a general idea of graduate coursework, admission requirements, cost, school reputability, etc., along with additional school links. This ranking provides information for first-year students, but transfer students will follow the same program guidelines.

In this guide, you’ll find:

• The best ABET-accredited occupational health and safety degrees

• Career and salary outlooks from the BLS

• Universities with fast-track or GSP pathways

Our Method: Ranking the 25 Best Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs

To rank the 25 Best Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs, Best Health Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs. We ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential from our initial pool, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

Accreditation: Regional + ABET, ATMAE, or BCSP-recognized

Affordability: Net price based on IPEDS data

Reputation: U.S. News & Niche rankings

Salary potential: PayScale & BLS data

Top 5 Bachelor’s in Occupational Health & Safety Programs (2026)

1. Purdue University

This renowned Indiana university not only offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Occupational Environmental Health Sciences (OEHS) program but a 4+1 BS/MPH (in cooperation with the university’s Department of Public Health) degree. Both programs have ABET accreditation. Additionally, the BS is a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) program by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP).

The suggested curriculum requires 120 credit hours in general education subjects (humanities, math, science, etc.) and coursework in the OEHS major. Some classes you might take are Toxicology, Risk Assessment in Environmental Health, Introduction to Health Sciences Profession, Occupational Safety and Management and Culture, Principles of Epidemiology, and others.

You may also participate in an internship working in one of several well-known companies, such as Boeing, Ford, Caterpillar, etc. On-campus research projects work with Radiological and Environmental Management faculty or the study abroad program at the Dublin Institute of Technology in Environmental and Public Health.

Admission requirements include an application, self-reported grades, ACT/SAT scores (flexible for Spring, Summer, and Fall), and other documents as requested. First-year and transfer students will begin the admission process with an application.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,992-$28,794/per academic year

Fast Facts:  Purdue’s OEHS undergraduates may be able to “fast-track” into a Master’s degree directly—meaning students in good standing can begin graduate coursework while still completing their BS, effectively saving time and laying groundwork earlier.

Interested? Check out the program site for this occupational safety and health degree!

2. University of Houston – Clear Lake

You may want to explore the BS in Occupational Safety and Health degree, which offers a choice between a concentration in Safety or Industrial Hygiene. This program is a Qualified Academic Program (QAP).

The overall curriculum is 120 credit hours. Students take university core requirements in Communication, Language, Philosophy and Culture, and American History. Courses in your OSH major will include studies in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Air Pollution Science
• Environmental Safety and Health
• Principles of Professional Safety

Depending on your concentration, you’ll take classes in:

• Fire Safety Engineering
• Construction and General Industry Safety
• Environmental Toxicology
• Industrial Ventilation
• Noise and Hearing Conservation

Regardless of your concentration, you’ll complete an internship during your senior year that must be pre-approved by the program chair.

You’ll start admission with an application through ApplyTexas ($45 fee), submission of ACT/SAT test scores, and official academic transcripts from all schools attended.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,298-$25,978/per academic year

Fast Facts: The UHCL OSH program is recognized as a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) — meaning its graduates are eligible to apply directly for the Graduate Safety Practitioner® (GSP®) credential (a stepping stone toward the Certified Safety Professional®).

Interested? Check out the program site for this occupational safety and health degree!

3. Sacramento State University

This is a BS in Public Health specializing in Occupational Health and Safety from Sacramento State, a part of the California State University System. The program trains you to be an attractive candidate for employers and prepares you for advanced studies in Public Health.

In addition to the university’s general education requirements, you’ll enroll in major classes in areas like:

• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Introduction to Statistics
• Epidemiology
• Health Data Analysis
• Fieldwork in Health or Safety

Among the courses in your concentration are:

• Occupational Health
• Cause and Control of Occupational Loss
• Fundamentals of Safety and Health
• Occupational Health and Safety Laws and Regulations
• Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry (or Organic Chemistry Lecture–Brief Course)

You’ll have a choice of three electives from a slate of classes such as Environment and Law, Environmental Toxicology, American Environmental History, and more.

First-year students must hold a high school diploma, GED, or California High School Proficiency Examination (CHSPE) as admission requirements. Additional documents requested are official academic transcripts, a Cal State Apply application submission, and a fee. Students may need to provide other materials if the school requests them.

Estimated Tuition Costs: $7,530-$19,298/per academic year

Fast Facts: Students in Sac State’s Public Health program who graduate with any concentration—including Occupational Health & Safety—are exempt from the university’s Foreign Language graduation requirement.

Interested? Check out the program site for this occupational safety and health degree!

4. The University of Arizona

You have a choice of delivery options with this BS in Public Health with an Environmental and Occupational Health Emphasis from UA. The program is on the Tucson campus or online.

This four-year degree covers general education coursework and Public Health classes for a total of 120 credit hours. A sample of your classes includes:

• Introduction to Public Health
• Introductory Biology (with lab)
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Health Care in the United States
• Global Health
• Introduction to Environmental and Occupational Health

You can also take Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene classes, Topics in Environmental Justice, and participate in Field Work in Health Education.

Offered through the Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, admission requires a two-tier process. You’ll start the admission process by applying to Arizona University. The school requires an application with a fee. It is $50 for Arizona residents and $80 for non-Arizona residents. You do not need an ACT or SAT test score. But you do need a high school diploma or GED. Other documents, such as academic transcripts, may be necessary as well. Once you’ve completed pre-requisite courses at AU, you’ll make an application for the Public Health Major.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $13,900-$43,100/per academic year

Fast Facts: UA offers an accelerated 5-year combined BS + MPH EOH program, allowing high-achieving undergraduates to begin their MPH coursework while finishing the BS — shaving off time compared to doing them separately.

Interested? Check out the program site for this occupational safety and health degree!

5. Rochester Institute of Technology

You’ll earn a BS degree in Environmental Sustainability, Health, and Safety that offers a focus on best practices, sustainability, and protections to influence communities and industries.

As with most undergraduate degrees, you’ll study general education classes along with coursework in your major. Some major courses offered in the 126-credit hour curriculum are:

• Introduction to Hydrology
• Occupational Safety
• EHS Accident Causation and Prevention
• Corporate EHS Management
• Environmental Health and Safety Professional Communication
• Environmental Monitoring and Measurement

You’ll also complete a Capstone Project before graduation.

First-year students will need a high school diploma (or a GED), and ACT/SAT test scores aren’t required. You’ll submit a letter of recommendation and academic transcripts as part of the process. An application is necessary using either the Common Application or the RIT Application. You’re encouraged to talk with an admission advisor.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $69,030/per academic year

Fast Facts: An ESHS student at RIT once fast-tracked through the BS/MS dual-degree option in four years (instead of five), while also completing three full co-op placements in aerospace safety, hazardous waste auditing, and food waste research.

Interested? Check out the program site for this occupational safety and health degree!

6. Brigham Young University – Idaho

BYU-Idaho offers a BS with an Occupational Safety and Health major, designed to prepare you to enter the workforce, as the website says, “as safety, industrial hygiene, and environmental professionals.” The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies as well.

A 120-credit hour curriculum, this bachelor’s degree requires general education classes and core studies in Safety and Health, Science, and Electives. Subjects include:

• Biostatistics
• General Chemistry
• Human Anatomy & Physiology
• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Hazardous Materials Management
• Accident Investigation and Prevention
• Introduction to Industrial Hygiene

You’ll also participate in an internship experience.

Admission criteria for BYU-I are reviewed in three areas: academic achievement, seminary, and church endorsements. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints members in good standing are admissible to the university, and non-member applicants are required to abide by the Code of Honor and can be interviewed by their particular church or Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints leader. The application requires an ecclesiastical endorsement, and ACT or SAT test scores aren’t necessary for admission during the recent application cycles.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,295/per academic year

Fast Facts: According to a BYU-Idaho program video, students in the OSH major graduate not just with academic knowledge but also multiple hands-on certifications and an OSHA card, thanks to real-equipment training in class

Interested? Check out the program site for this occupational safety and health degree!

7. Illinois State University

Located in Normal, Illinois, ISU’s Department of Health Sciences offers a BS in Occupational Safety and Health degree which is Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET accredited.

You’ll take major courses in:

• Chemistry
• Safety Technology
• Accident/Incident Investigation
• Records and Evaluation
• Safety And Society
• Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)
• Fire Protection and Prevention
• Ergonomics
• Human Anatomy And Physiology
• Finite Mathematics

You’ll also experience a Professional Practice: Safety under the supervision of an experienced safety professional, working in business and industry. A Senior Capstone Project is required prior to graduation. Additionally, you’ll take general education courses as part of the 120-credit hour curriculum in Fine Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, etc.

University admission begins with an application, academic transcripts, and an optional personal statement. ACT/SAT test scores aren’t needed.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,066-$34,602/per academic year

Fast Facts: The student organization for Illinois State’s Occupational Safety & Health program was honored by the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) as the “Best Student Section in the Nation” in both 2017 and 2019.

Interested? Check out the safety and health management program site!

8. Central Washington University

Your BS degree in Safety and Health Management (SHM) from CWU will meet the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) Qualified Academic Program (QAP) requirements, and you’ll be eligible to apply for Graduate Safety Practitioner® (GSP®) certification.

The curriculum is a blend of the university’s general education requirements, SHM foundational, technical, and professional management classes for 125-127 credits. Foundational classes are:

• General Psychology
• Introduction to Chemistry
• Human Physiology

Technical courses include:

• General Industry Safety and Health
• Risk Management Principles and Practices,
• Construction Safety and Health
• Evolving Issues in Safety and Health Management

There is also a Capstone Project as well as an Internship.

You’ll start your admission process with an application ($60 fee) which requires you to have a minimum 2.0 GPA and submission of official academic transcripts. CWU requires you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®) or the state financial aid application, Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA). The WASFA is for students who haven’t filed the FAFSA^® or are ineligible to make applications for federal assistance.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $8,580-$27,526/per academic year

Fast Facts: CWU’s SHM program offers one of the few four-year Occupational Safety & Health Management degrees on the entire West Coast — making it a standout in its region.

Interested? Check out the Safety and Health Management Program site!

9. Murray State University

You’re given a choice between two concentrations with this BS in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) from this Kentucky university. Both concentrations hold ABET accreditation.

The program offers specialties in the Occupational Safety and Health track or Environmental Health and Safety track. Among the classes in this 120-credit hour curriculum are general education and OSH foundational courses. They include:

• OSH Standards
• Fundamentals of Management
• Fire and Emergency Preparedness Preplanning
• Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene

Depending on your specialty track, the program offers classes in:

• Occupational Diseases
• Fundamentals of Air Pollution and Control
• Emergency Medical Training
• Loss Control Management and Measurement

You’ll also have a wide choice of electives to support your overall training. Both specialties require an Internship.

Some of the admission requirements are a high school diploma (or GED certificate) and you’ll self-report your GPA. Academic transcripts and other documents may be requested. Murray State University is ACT/SAT test-optional, depending on your overall GPA. You’ll complete an application ($40 fee). You’ll make a supplemental application for the OSH program after earning 30 credit hours at MSU.

Estimated Tuition Costs: $10,320-$27,936/per academic year

Fast Facts: Murray State’s OSH program offers two distinct bachelor’s tracks — one in Occupational Safety & Health and another in Environmental Health & Safety — allowing students flexibility to specialize before graduating.

Interested? Check out the safety and health management program site!

10. Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University is located in Allendale, Michigan, and opened in 1960. You can earn a BS in Occupational Safety & Health Management (OSHM) which is accredited by the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET.

The curriculum for this major requires you to complete essential classes in:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health Management
• Applied Statistics
• Hazard Control
• Critical Incident Analysis
• Fire Science
• Principles of Industrial Hygiene
• Safety and Health Program Development
• Safety and Health Administration

You’ll choose 9 hours in electives from various classes such as Health Care Facility Safety, Construction Safety, Environmental Compliance Application, and others. The program requires you to complete an Internship in Occupational Safety and Health Management.

You’ll file the admission application (either online or paper) to start the process. Be prepared to submit final high school transcripts and other documents. ACT/SAT test scores aren’t required for fall admission in 2022.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $614-$644/per credit

Fast Facts: Through a partnership with MIOSHA, safety professionals holding certain MIOSHA credentials (Level 2 Safety & Health Management Systems) can earn college credits toward GVSU’s OSHM degree, fast-tracking degree completion.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety program site!

11. Northeastern State University

You’ll want to review this BS in Environmental, Health, and Safety Management from this Oklahoma university with two concentrations in Safety Management or Environmental Management. NSU also offers an Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Degree Program, allowing you to earn both your bachelor’s and master’s program in less time than with conventional programs.

You’ll take 46 credit hours of general education courses along with 54 credit hours in your major. The BS requires core studies in:

• Applied Safety Engineering
• Introduction to Environmental Management
• Industrial Hygiene
• Leadership in Organizations

Depending on your concentration, you’ll continue with classes in:

• Environmental Contaminants
• Process Safety Management
• Industrial Air Pollution Control
• Process Safety Management
• Ergonomics
• Life Safety
• Building Codes

The overall coursework also includes elective courses.

First-time college students are required to submit an application. Additional admission documents requested include academic transcripts demonstrating graduation from high school (or having a GED certificate), a 2.7 overall GPA, and ACT test scores.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $17,582/per academic year

Fast Facts: NSU’s EHSM degree offers an accelerated BS → MBA track, allowing students to earn up to 12 graduate credits while still finishing their bachelor’s — making the transition to a graduate business degree faster

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety program site!

12. University of Central Oklahoma

Here’s another Oklahoma university that offers a Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) Qualified Academic Program (QAP) designated BS in Occupational Safety program.

The curriculum requires 124- credit hours, including 61 credit hours in your major. Some topics you’ll study are:

• Introduction to OSHA
• Advanced Safety Management
• Industrial Hygiene
• Safety Education
• Construction Safety
• Introductory Chemistry and Lab
• Legal Aspects of Occupational Safety
• a Capstone Project
• completion of a Safety Senior Exam

The Capstone is chosen from either Safety Program Development or an Internship in Occupational Safety. This program offers an impressive list of elective course offerings from which you can choose to reach your 124-hour requirement.

You’ll make an application ($40 application fee) and admission requires you to submit academic transcripts from your high school or a GED certificate and is an ACT/SAT test-optional university through 2026.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $16,137-$44,598/per academic year

Fast Facts: Because UCO’s Occupational Safety program is a Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) Qualified Academic Program (QAP) designated by the BCSP, graduates can skip the Associate Safety Professional (ASP) exam step and apply directly for the GSP credential after finishing their degree.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety program site!

13. Ohio University

The College of Health Sciences and Professionals at this Ohio university has a BS in Occupational Hygiene and Safety that prepares you to enter the field identify, evaluate, and maintain safe workplace environments for workers.

Requiring 122 credit hours, this program has core coursework in:

• Occupational Safety and Health
• Toxicology for the Health Sciences
• Introduction to Environmental Health and Safety
• Community Health Epidemiology
• Physical Hazards Evaluation and Control
• Public Health Emergency Response

Additionally, students can choose a wide slate of electives in classes like:

• Medical Terminology
• Introduction to Ethics, Air, Waters
• Waste, Water and Pollution
• History of Public Health Disasters

And, they complete general education classes as required by the university.

Applications are through the Common Application or an alternative Ohio University Application. Each has a $50 fee. Admission to OU reviews your high school studies, GPA, and its ACT or SAT test optional. However, you must submit official academic transcripts.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $14,582-$24,114/per academic year

Fast Facts: Ohio University offers a stand-alone Workplace Health & Safety Certificate (15 credit hours) that students can stack onto any major—including Occupational Hygiene & Safety—to give them a safety credential even before finishing their degree.

Interested? Check out the program site! occupational health and safety program site!

14. Marshall University

Located in Huntington, WV, Marshall University awards a BS in Occupational Safety and Health degree, which is ABET-accredited and is designed to prepare you for entry-level positions in the field.

The curriculum for this degree includes general education studies in the humanities, math, sciences, etc., and is designed to provide you with skills in critical thinking, professional management, communication, and leadership. Additionally, this major covers such classes as Development & Management of Occupational Safety Program, Intro Applied Anatomy & Physiology, Safety Evaluation and Measurement, Construction Safety, Incident Investigation Technology, Industrial Hygiene, and others. You’ll also complete an internship before graduation.

General admission requirements for first-year students require you to hold a high school diploma (or GED certificate) with at least a 2.0 GPA, you’ll also need to submit official academic transcripts, ACT/SAT test scores, as well as a valid immunization record (including measles, rubella, or MMR, etc.). The application requires a $40 fee.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,390/per academic year

Fast Facts: Marshall’s OSH program is a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) with the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP), which means graduating seniors can go straight for the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) credential—skipping the usual Associate Safety Professional (ASP) hurdle.

Interested? Check out the program site! occupational health and safety program site!

15. Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond, Louisiana, has a BS in Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment (OSHE) degree which is ABET-accredited and provides a comprehensive program that will prepare you to work as a professional in the field.

General education courses, required by the university, are part of the degree program the OSHE curriculum offers classes in:

• Fire Protection and Prevention
• Safety Laws, Regulations, and Standards
• Construction Safety
• Safety & Health Program Management
• Administration, System Safety Methodologies
• Ergonomics
• an Internship.

You’ll also take Professional Elective courses to round out your education.

As an entering first-year student, you’ll submit admission materials showing a minimum of a 2.5 GPA from your high school career (or, GED or HiSET).

Estimated Tuition Cost: $8,373-$20,851/per academic year

Fast Facts: Graduates of Southeastern’s OSH&E program are automatically eligible for the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP®) credential—because their degree is recognized by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP).

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety program site!

16. Boise State University

This BS in Public Health degree offers an Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (EOHS) emphasis. The school suggests this degree will qualify you for positions such as an Occupational Safety Specialist, an Environmental Compliance Office, or an Environmental Health Scientist.

You’ll take 120 credit hours to earn this degree, which includes general education courses as required by the university and coursework in your major. Among those classes are studies in:

• Evidence-Based Public Health
• Toxicology for Environmental & Occupational Health
• Introductory Microbiology
• Health Policy and Ethics
• Epidemiology

You’ll also participate in an Environmental Health Internship. The curriculum trains you to identify community and workplace risks, injuries, and illnesses.

Among the admission requirements for Idaho residents are an application ($50 fee for non-Idaho residents), official high school academic transcripts, and a personal statement. You’ll want to review the admission details through the BSU Undergraduate Catalog.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,364-$28,478/per academic year

Fast Facts: Boise State’s EOHS emphasis includes a course titled “Emerging Issues in Workplace Health & Safety” (EOHS 434), which covers futuristic risks like AI, robotics, job instability, and even climate-driven hazards in the workplace.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

17. Millersville University

With its campus in Millersville, Pennsylvania, Millersville University was established in 1855 and has a current student population of over 6,000 students. MU offers a BS in Occupational Safety & Environmental Health Program (OSEH), accredited by ABET.

This is a four-year curriculum, that includes general education requirements, as well as major coursework. You’ll enroll in classes in the major such as:

• Industrial Hygiene – Physical Hazards
• Environmental Health
• Industrial Hygiene- Chemical & Biological Hazards
• System Safety
• Topics in Occ. Safety & Env. Health

The program requires an Internship (one semester in duration) and is completed in your final semester, where you’ll work 40 hours a week and gain valuable, real-world experience in OSEH. Millersville University provides four laboratories, especially for the OSEH program.

Among the admission requirements to become a first-year MU student, you’ll complete an application and provide an official high school transcript, ACT/SAT test report, letters of reference, and a personal statement.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $11,128 to $22,232/per academic year

Fast Facts: Millersville’s OSEH program is one of only six programs in the entire United States accredited by ABET under the Environmental, Health & Safety Criteria.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

18. University of Central Missouri

You’re given three options for earning this BS in Occupational Safety with specialty choices in Environmental, Safety, or Health Science Management concentrations. 

Among the foundational courses, you’ll take classes in:

• Environmental Compliance
• Applied Sciences for Professional Studies
• Industrial Hygiene
• Ergonomics in Safety and Health
• Accident Investigation
• Occupational Risk Management
• Systems Safety
• Human Biology

You’ll also participate in an Internship and take general education courses as required by the university.

NOTE: You may consider enrolling in the Occupational Safety BS/Occupational Safety Management MS (Accelerated Program) either online, hybrid, or on the Warrensburg, Missouri campus.

UCM considers a wide scope of factors in considering students for admission. Among those application, considerations are your high school GPA, letters of recommendation, the personal statement letter, and activities in your community and involvement. UCM is an ACT/SAT optional school.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,050-$18,600/per academic year

Fast Facts: UCM’s Occupational Safety program offers a “Safety Olympics” day for students—an informal campus event where students compete in hands-on safety challenges (like hazard identification treasure hunts, mock safety audits, and PPE relay races) as a fun way to reinforce real-world OSH skills

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

19. Jacksonville State University

This Bachelor of Science program in Occupational Safety and Health Management at Jacksonville State University in Alabama is accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE). Graduating with this degree will make you eligible, as a Graduate Safety Professional to apply for Certified Safety Professional.

With this curriculum, you’ll take the university’s general education coursework along with your major classes. Some of those classes are:

• Construction Safety
• Industrial Hygiene
• Industrial Training
• Hazardous Material Technology
• Industrial Safety and Health
• Industrial Ergonomics
• Hazard Control Technology
• Principles of Management

Additionally, you’ll take a Senior Seminar as well as participate in an Industrial Internship.

JSU is test optional through 2023 for admission consideration. You’ll need a high school diploma (or GED certificate) and complete an application (with a $35 fee) to begin the process. Be prepared to submit documents as requested, such as academic transcripts.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,246-$24,824 /per academic year

Fast Facts: JSU’s OSHM program is the only program of its kind in the entire state of Alabama, and it’s ATMAE-accredited—a rare combination of exclusivity and recognized quality.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

20. University of Alaska – Anchorage

You can earn a BS in Occupational Safety and Health (the only such program in Alaska) which features job training through internships and other practical experiences. Courses are offered online and during the evenings.

The program requires you to take general education classes as well as core OSH coursework. Among the core curriculum are topics such as:

• Injury Prevention and Risk Management
• Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene
• Principles of Ergonomics
• Human Factors
• Risk Management for Safety and Health

You’ll also be eligible to choose 9 hours of electives in Selected Topics in Occupational Safety and Health as well as Advanced Occupational Safety and Health Internship. A senior Capstone Project allows you to apply what you’ve learned to real-world situational problems.

Admission consideration requires a high school diploma (or GED certificate) and self-reporting of your GPA (a minimum of 2.5 is required) along with an application. An official academic transcript will be requested. While not used in determining your admission, standardized tests are used in deciding math and writing course levels.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $241-$841/per credit

Fast Fact: In UAA’s OSH program, students take a course in Environmental Issues for Safety & Health Professionals that covers petrochemical contamination of Arctic lands and waters — making it one of the few safety programs that explicitly addresses industrial risks unique to Alaska’s environment.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

21. Slippery Rock University

Located in the Greater Pittsburgh Region of Pennsylvania, SRU awards a BS in Safety Management degree developed to prepare you for careers in Risk Management, Compliance, Safety, and more.

This curriculum covers general education in the humanities, physical and social sciences, etc. Classes in the Safety major include studies in Principles in Industrial Hygiene, Legislative Compliance-General Industry, Injury and Damage Incidents Evaluation, Organizational Behavior, Security in the Workplace, Contemporary Safety Topics and Issues, and more. An Internship provides experience in a real-world work environment. When you graduate, you’ll be eligible to pursue the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification.

To be considered for admission, you’ll begin with an application (with a $30 fee) and provide additional documents. You’ll be asked for official high school transcripts. If you have a 3.25 or higher GPA, you’ll automatically be admitted to SRU, but you should still apply if your GPA is lower. SRU is now ACT and SAT test optional.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,568-$14,426/per academic year

Fast Facts: As part of their degree requirements, SRU safety management students earn both OSHA 30-hour Construction and OSHA 30-hour General Industry cards—giving them two nationally recognized safety credentials before they graduate.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

22. University of Findlay

This Ohio University was established in 1882 and has a BS in Environment, Health, Safety (EHS), and Sustainability degree which offers four concentrations. This ranking concentrates on Safety and Occupational Health.

Your degree will include general education studies along with core EHS and Sustainability classes. Some foundational topics include:

• Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
• Public Health Microbiology
• OSHA Practice and Standards
• Management of Safety and Health Programs
• Epidemiology and Biostatistics
• Environment and Society
• Basic Organic
• Biochemistry/Lecture/Lab, Emergency Management and Law

The program also provides a paid internship while you’re still in school.

Among the admission requirements for the University of Findlay, you’ll need to have a high school diploma (or GED certificate), a 2.5 GPA, and provide academic transcripts. Additionally, ACT/SAT test scores are requested, but if you’re unable to take the test due to COVID-19, your application can be reviewed based on a writing sample, an academic letter of recommendation, and an interview with a UF admission advisor. The University of Findlay uses the Common App for applications.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $39,900/per academic year

Fast Facts: Findlay’s EHS & Sustainability program offers access to a nationally renowned “All Hazards Training Center,” where students train in real-world disaster and industrial scenarios as part of their coursework.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

23. Fairmont State University

This West Virginia school offers a BS in Occupational Safety with ABET accreditation that emphasizes health hazard control, compliance, ergonomics, and more.

The curriculum is a 2+2, flexible program in which you’ll earn your associate degree at FSU prior to your bachelor’s studies. You’ll take core classes in your major, including studies in Human Biology, Application of Safety Strategies, Ergonomics & Human Factors, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Safety Management and Concepts in Accident Prevention, and also Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Systems. You’ll also participate in a Safety Internship in employee safety and health.

To submit an application for admission and provide documents such as your high school transcript (or GED/TASC). Applicants need at least a 2.0 high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores may be required. Additionally, prospective students must upload MMR, Tetanus, Meningococcal Vaccine and other immunization records. The COVID-19 vaccine is highly recommended.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $8,708-$13,064/per academic year

Fast Facts: Because Fairmont’s Occupational Safety program is ABET-accredited and a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) with the Board of Certified Safety Professionals, graduates can skip the Associate Safety Professional (ASP) step and go straight to the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) designation.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

24. Keene State College

Established in 1909, this New Hampshire College offers more than 40 areas of study, including this BS in Safety and Occupational Health Applied Sciences.

Among the core classes in this curriculum study in:

• Human Factors in Safety
• Industrial Hygiene
• System and Behavioral Sciences
• Safety Training Methods
• Law and Ethics in Safety
• Safety Chemistry, Occupational Safety
• Health Hazard Identification
• choice of safety electives

The department offers several electives such as Risk Management, Critical Incident Response, Special Topics in Safety, and others. A Capstone Project is required in Innovative Safety Leadership. The program strongly encourages an Internship in either Safety or Advanced Safety to provide you with practical experience.

You’ll begin the admission process by completing either a Keene State College Application or the CommonApp. The KSC application is free, and you’ll pay $50 for the CommonApp. You may need to provide supplemental materials such as your official high school transcript or High School Equivalency Test (HSE), and General Equivalency Diploma (GED). ACT and SAT scores are optional. Additionally, the program encourages letters of recommendation.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,048-$24,406/per academic year

Fast Facts:

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

25. Indiana University of Pennsylvania

As the name suggests, this university is located in Indiana, Pennsylvania. The Department of Safety, Health, and Environmental Applied Sciences website calls this BS degree “…(a) small program with a national reputation…”

The course pathway requires general studies in Social and Natural Sciences and Math along with program-specific requirements. You’ll take classes offered in Principles in Safety, Ergonomics, Safety, Health, and Environmental Communications, Hazard Prevention Management, Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health, Process and Systems Safety, Ethics and Professionalism, etc. The degree also has you take additional classes in Human Biology, Physics, and business electives. An Internship is an integral part of degree completion.

IUP admission doesn’t require SAT test scores, but you do need to have a high school diploma (or GED), an official academic transcript, and an application. You should provide a personal essay, letter(s) of recommendation, AP scores, and/or transcripts for any college courses you’ve taken.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $11,724-$15,322/per academic year

Fast Facts: IUP’s Safety Sciences program was ranked first in Pennsylvania and second in the entire U.S. by Universities.com.

Interested? Check out the occupational health and safety management program site!

What is Occupational Safety and Health?

From farms to factories, people are injured, made ill, or die from unsafe practices. We’ve all seen historic pictures of miners (adults and children) working in poorly ventilated and dangerous mines. Some have Black Lung Disease, have other diseases or injuries, or even die. In 1911 the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire horrified the country when 146 women died. They were locked in rooms by factory owners to prevent theft. The examples are, unfortunately, many.

President Richard Nixon, in 1970, signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), enacted to develop and maintain regulations and health standards across the board for employees. State and federal governments began acting as regulators to provide employees with safe and healthy environments.

As a result of this legislation, colleges and universities created academic programs to train experts to examine, analyze, and develop safety measures across a wide variety of occupations.

Why Should You Get a Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety? 

Answering that question depends on your interests and career goals. A degree in this field will open several employment options for you in assuring employees working in various areas in health care, industry, construction, manufacturing, management, and more.

You’ll develop the tools and skills necessary to effect genuine change in your field to examine health and safety concerns, make procedural changes, develop a healthy and safe organizational culture, ensure OSHA and regulatory compliance, etc.

How Do You Find the Right Program?

ACCREDITATION

The programs in this ranking are all accredited by independent agencies such as the Higher Learning Commission and other Department of Education (DOE) recognized agencies. Some programs have specialty accreditation.

You should look for programs accredited by organizations like the Applied Science Accreditation Commission of Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE), and the BS is a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The QAP meets the credentialing requirement for Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification. 

Many schools require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®). Schools frequently use the FAFSA scholarship consideration and determine the amount of federal student aid for which you may qualify.

What Can I Do with a Degree in Occupational Health and Safety?

Careers in OHS are many and expected to grow by 14%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Employment in manufacturing/industry, construction, hospitals/health systems, local, state, and federal government agencies, and consulting services are examples of employment for entry-level positions.

As described by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), a BS in this field will qualify you as a specialist or technician. As such, you’ll be responsible for employing and enforcing safety regulations developing processes, analyzing and writing reports, investigating accidents, incidents, or complaints, and more. Some job titles include Risk Manager, Compliance Officer, Industrial Hygienist, Safety Engineer, Environmental Health and Safety Director or Manager, Safety Coordinator, etc. Other careers, as listed by the BLS, include

• Health and Safety Engineers (more from BLS)
• Construction and Building Inspectors (more from BLS)
• Environmental Science and Protection (more from BLS)
• Fire Inspectors (more from BLS)
• Environmental Scientists and Specialists (more from BLS)
• Emergency Management Directors (more from BLS)

How Much Can You Make with a Degree in Occupational Safety and Health?

The BLS reports salaries for Occupational Health and Safety Specialists ranging from $$50,610-$130,460 and $40,550-$94,670 for OHS technicians, depending on where you live and your place of employment. You can earn approximately $20,000 more annually with certification.

PayScale publishes an average national salary of $77,000 annually for a bachelor’s prepared Occupational Health and Safety professional. Salary reports an annual average of $87,100 for specialists.

Related:

• Fastest Online Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety
• Best Online Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs
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The post 25 Best Colleges with Safety Degrees appeared first on The Best Health Degrees.

Key Takeaways:

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and University of Central Missouri are two top schools for a fast online occupational health and safety degree.
• These programs typically cover essential topics such as workplace safety regulations, hazard recognition, and health risk assessments.
• Graduates of these programs are prepared for roles in ensuring safe work environments and may work in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and government agencies.

A fast Occupational Health and Safety degree online is a flexible program that prepares students for a career in this growing field. Online programs can also help students get into graduate school.

Best Health Degrees looked at schools offering bachelor’s degree programs in Occupational Health and Safety to help you find the right program. We offer information that gives you a general idea of admission requirements, cost, coursework, school reputation, etc. This ranking provides information for first-year students, but transfer students will follow the same program guidelines. Most schools on this list offer generous transfer credit policies, which can help speed up your degree.

Our editors first ranked fastest bachelor’s in occupational health and safety programs in September 2022. This ranking was updated March 2024.

Ranking Method 10 Fastest Online Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs

To rank the 10 Fastest Online Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety degree programs, Best Health Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications. You can read about our findings below.

1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Program Website

Embry-Riddle offers an online BS in Safety Management which is a Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) Qualified Academic Program (QAP) and a Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) program. This designation is beneficial for the pursuit of certification.

This occupational health and safety degree program begins with general education classes in Humanities, Communication Theory and Skills, Physical and Life Science, and others. Classes in the Safety Management major offer studies in Fundamentals of Occupational Safety and Health, Ergonomics, Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology, Environmental Compliance and Safety, and Introduction to Health, Occupational, and Transportation Safety. Elective courses help round out your studies.

Pros

• Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) Qualified Academic Program (QAP)
• BSSM-MSOSM 4+1 program
• Certification options
• Top-ranked school with U.S. News and World Report
• Transfer credits accepted

Cons

• More competitive than some programs
• Stringent admission requirements

2. University of Central Missouri

Program Website

There are three options with the BS in Occupational Safety degree at University of Central Missouri with specialty choices in Environmental, Safety, or Health Science Management concentrations. 

Among the foundational courses, you’ll take classes in Environmental Compliance, Applied Sciences for Professional Studies, Industrial Hygiene, Ergonomics in Safety and Health, Accident Investigation, Occupational Risk Management, and Systems Safety. An Internship is available, which can help students network and make connections. You can also enroll in the Occupational Safety BS/Occupational Safety Management MS (Accelerated Program) either online or hybrid. This accelerated program will let you earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in five years, rather than the six usually required for both degrees.

Pros

• ABET-accredited
• Fast-paced pathways to a master’s degree
• 100% job or graduate school placement
• 100% of faculty hold CSP certification
• Minimum GPA of 2.2

Cons

• 53% graduation rate
• Assessment exam for graduation

3. University of Maryland Global Campus

Program Website

The University of Maryland Global is a well-known online campus that awards a BS in Environmental Management through the Healthcare and Science division.

Studies in the 120-credit hour curriculum include general education classes along with the major’s requirements. You’ll take classes in Environmental Regulations and Policy, Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Technology, Human Health and Disease, Environmental Technology, and others. Other required studies are Pre-Calculus, Environmental Chemistry, and Introduction to Statistics. Depending on your career path and choices, you’ll be able to enroll in either a Sustainability or Toxicology and Hazard Control focus.

Pros

• Access to student organizations (Environmental Awareness Club)
• Diverse selection of courses
• Leadership skills emphasized
• Online courses
• Transfer up to 90 credits

Cons

• Prerequisite math and chemistry courses
• Only select hybrid courses available

4. Eastern Kentucky University

Program Website

The BS in Occupational Safety at EKU will qualify you for the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) as the program is an Academic Program (QAP) by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP).

This major includes Principles of Occupational Safety and Health, Measures of Safety Performance, Human Factors in Occupational Safety, Safety and Health Program Management, Environmental Law and Management, Process Safety Management, Safety Training Strategies, and a Senior Capstone Project. An internship is available with departmental approval. This curriculum is the same for online students as for those attending the Richmond, KY campus.

Pros

• 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• BCSP qualified
• Internship opportunities
• Unique blend of courses and curriculum

Cons

• Senior capstone project required
• Out-of-state tuition for non-residents

5. The University of Arizona

Program Website

You have a choice of delivery options with this University of Arizona BS in Public Health with an Environmental and Occupational Health emphasis. The four-year degree covers general education coursework and Public Health classes for 120-credit hours. A sampling of classes available includes Introduction to Public Health, Introductory Biology (with lab), Human Anatomy and Physiology, Health Care in the United States, Global Health, and Introduction to Environmental and Occupational Health. Other classes include Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Topics in Environmental Justice, and also Field Work in Health Education.

This degree is through the Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health. You’ll start the admission process by applying to Arizona University with an application and fee. Scores from the ACT or SAT are optional, but you do need a high school diploma (or GED).

Pros

• Fast-paced online coursework
• Moderate level of math required
• No pre-major required
• Transfer credits accepted

Cons

• Higher application fee for non-residents
• Optional test scores

6. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Program Website

Depending on your objectives, the online BS in Occupational Safety and Health in at Southeastern Oklahoma State University might be a good fit.

Courses include Drugs in Society, Industrial Hygiene, Hazardous Materials, Waste Management, Acoustics, Vibration, Noise Control, Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health, Training and Instructional Techniques, etc. A strong slate of electives from topics such as General Safety, Management, and Organizational Behavior, Special Studies, and an Internship requirement complete the 124-credit hour curriculum. To help shorten the time it takes to complete your degree, you can transfer up to 90 credits.

Pros

• Accelerated online classes
• Accepts up to 90 transfer credits
• BCSP-accredited
• Pay as you go tuition

Cons

• Out-of-state tuition for non-residents
• Overall graduation rate of 34%

7. Columbia Southern University

Program Website

Columbia Southern University awards a BS in Occupational Safety and Health. This program has recognition from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals as a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) that will allow you to apply for the Graduate Safety Practitioner® designation with the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. This degree also has approval from the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM).

The 120-credit hour curriculum includes studies in OSHA Standards, Fundamentals of Occupational Safety and Health, Industrial Hygiene, Interaction of Hazardous Materials, and Advanced Concepts in Occupational Safety and Health. Electives will round out your OSH degree, as there are many diverse choices. CSU offers a generous transfer policy and considers CLEP, DSST, and Excelsior’s UExcel exams as well as possible academic credit for professional licenses, certificates, and training programs.

Pros

• Board-approved through the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM)
• Career-focused courses
• Generous transfer credit policy
• Low flat-rate tuition
• Online, accelerated courses

Cons

• Higher student-to-faculty ratio of 28:1

8. Capitol Technology University

Program Website

This online BS in Occupational Safety has recognition as a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) and will allow you to make an application for the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) designation. The program holds ABET accreditation.

You’ll study Industrial Hygiene, Safety Management Systems, Hazardous Materials, Ergonomics, Risk Management, a Safety Senior Project, and electives. This is a 121-credit curriculum and also includes coursework in Humanities, Social Science, Management, Mathematics, and Sciences. Upon graduation, you’ll be eligible for entry-level positions working as Compliance Officer, Health and Safety Specialist, Safety, Security, and also Health & Environment Manager.

Pros

• Access to internships and high-paying jobs
• BCSP-approved program
• Career focused curriculum
• Generous transfer credit policy
• Online courses

Cons

• Higher tuition than some other schools
• Smaller student population (800+ students)

9. Waldorf University

Program Website

You can choose between a BA or a BS in Occupational Safety online from Waldorf University. This online program is for students with no background in occupational safety who want to enter the field. The program has recognition from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. 

Coursework includes topics in fundamentals in both occupational health and safety as well as industrial hygiene. Other classes involved are in Total Environmental Health and Safety Management, Introduction to Fire Prevention, Industrial Ergonomics, Legal Aspects of Safety and Health, and more. You can also choose electives from a strong catalog of classes such as Risk Management, Leadership, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, etc.

Pros

• Approved as a Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) Qualified Academic Program (QAP)
• Fast-paced, online options
• Flat-rate tuition for all students
• Liberal transfer policy
• No prior safety experience required

Cons

• 24:1 student-to-faculty ratio
• Remote campus setting

10. Unity University

Program Website

Maine’s Unity University is known as America’s Environmental College. The school awards an online BS in Environmental Health and Safety. This program gives you skills to work in EHS safety management and compliance, as well as pollution prevention and control, and also waste management.

Among the courses are core studies in Occupational Safety and Health, Environmental Psychology, Environmental Remediation and Toxicology, Fire Protection and Safety, Social Science for Environmental Professionals, and Professional Skills, Building a Better World: Ethical Decision-Making. General education includes biology, chemistry, communications, and other core studies. A Capstone Project completes the program.

Pros

• 100% online courses
• Job placement assistance
• No application fee
• Transfer up to 90 credits

Cons

• Capstone project requirement

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Articles:

• 25 Best Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs
• 15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs
• What Type Of Safety and Occupational Health Jobs Are Available?

The post 10 Fastest Occupational Health and Safety Degree Online appeared first on The Best Health Degrees.

Key Takeaways:

• Embry Riddle Aeronautical University is the #1 top school for a fast online occupational health and safety master’s degree program.
• Accelerated master’s in occupational health and safety cover a wide range of topics essential for the field, including Safety Management in Business and Industry, Occupational Risk Management, Safety and Health Program Design, and various specialized areas such as Industrial Hygiene and Public Health Toxicology.
• Graduates from these programs are often eligible to sit for professional certification exams, such as the Graduate Safety Professional (GSP) or the Certified Safety Professional (CSP) exams.

In 1970, President Richard Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), creating a federal administration created to develop and create a set of regulations and health standards across the country. This act was followed by states and cities creating concrete policies to ensure workplaces were safe and healthy environments.

In 2019, there were 5,333 fatalities in the US construction industry. This is one of the ten most frequently cited Occupational Health and Safety dangers reported by the U.S. Department of Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA). Other dangers cited are respiratory protection, hazard materials, falls, eye and face protections, machinery, etc. OSHA reports that worker fatal accidents, injuries, and illnesses were down in 2019.

Health and safety in the workplace has spawned an academic field to advance the science and development of health and safety protocols. Colleges and universities devote speciality studies in engineering, public health, and other departments to study and improve workplace environments. These undergraduate and graduate programs prepare technicians and specialists to examine, analyze, and develop safety measures across a wide spectrum of settings; and, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics calculates a 7% job growth in the occupational health and safety fields, which is as fast as the national average.

Best Health Degrees has looked at several graduate programs to identify some of the best master’s degree programs in Occupational Health and Safety. We synthesized information to provide you a general overview of coursework, admission requirements, cost, school rankings, etc.

The programs listed here are all accredited by independent agencies such as Applied Science Accreditation Commission of ABET, The National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC), or Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) as well as other Department of Education recognized groups. Online, accredited degree programs are eligible for financial aid. You’ll want to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^® for consideration for departmental scholarships or stipends, as well as graduate student loans.

Our Method: Ranking the 10 Fastest Online Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs

To rank the 10 Fastest Online Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs, Best Health Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

1. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

If you’re currently a working professional or military veteran, the online Master of Science in Occupational Safety Management (MSOSM) offers several ways to apply for previous educational credits from academic programs to work-life experiences toward the 30-credit hour program.

Studies include classes in Environmental Protection for the Safety, Health and Environmental Manager, Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology, Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response, Safety, Health and Environmental Legislation. Additionally, you’ll take coursework in Litigation & Compliance, Occupational Safety and Health Management, Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology, Human Factors and Ergonomics, etc. You’ll also complete a Graduate Capstone Course. This curriculum is designed to qualify you for management roles in healthcare, manufacturing, military, and other areas requiring critical safety needs.

For admission consideration, you’ll begin by submitting an application and supplying official academic transcripts from all schools, military training, or educational programs you’ve attended.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $623-$743/per credit hour

Fast Facts: U.S. News and World Report ranks this university #4 in Best Schools for Veterans as well as #5 in its Most Innovative Schools categories

ERAU

2. University of Wisconsin – Whitewater

This 100% online, part-time program is ideal for the working professional and awards a MS in Environmental Safety and Health degree.

You can transfer up to 12 credit hours from previous graduate work toward this 32-36 credit hour degree. You can choose one of two track options: research or coursework. Courses include studies in Principles of Occupational Epidemiology, Advanced Ergonomics, Disaster Planning and Response, Environmental and Safety Management, and more. If you follow the research track, you’ll also complete a Capstone Project which requires a research paper. There’s a wide choice of electives from which to choose which covers topics such as healthcare safety, industrial hygiene, management of workplace, airborne hazards. Classes are provided in 8-week sessions.

Departmental admission requires a bachelor’s degree as well as at least one-year of professional work experience. Your transcripts should show twenty undergraduate credits in science, business, math or engineering. Admission to UW-W begins with an application and requests academic transcripts and you may be asked to provide test scores, letters of recommendation, etc.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $652/ per credit hour

Fast Facts: Ranks #54 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Value Schools and one of Niche’s Best Colleges in America

UW-Whitewater

3. Murray State University

Murray State University is located in Kentucky, but you’ll won’t be required to go to the campus with this MS in Environmental Safety and Health that you can complete in less than two years.

This 30-credit hour degree is offered in 10 classes with enrollment in two classes per semester. Among the courses are Biostatistics and Probability, Industrial Hygiene and Safety Program Development, Occupational Safety & Health Organizational Leadership & Management, Current Literature and Research in Safety and Health, Safety and Health Program Management and Training, etc. You’ll also complete a Cooperative Education/Internship. The curriculum is designed to provide you the basis you’ll need for management roles in occupational health and safety areas

General admission to Murray State begins with an application ($40 processing fee) and submitting your academic transcripts demonstrating your completion of an undergraduate degree. GRE test scores aren’t required and you may be able to earn program credit for work experience.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $549/per credit hour

Fast Facts: Forbes rates Murray State University #416 in its Top Colleges in 2021 ranking and U.S. News and World Report includes it at #34 in its Best Value Schools category

Murray State

4. University of Wisconsin – Stout

You can earn this MS in Risk Control and Safety Management in 30-credit hours which is divided into three areas: Risk Control/Safety/Property Protection, Management/Applied Research, and Industrial Hygiene/Occupational Health. This MS is recognized by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals and is designed to enhance your problem solving skills and the integration of theory with practice. It’s possible to earn the degree in 9 or 16 months.

Classes include Occupational Safety and Health Standards, Risk Management Applications, Industrial Hygiene, Process Hazard Management, Risk Control Systems, etc. You’ll also complete a Risk Capstone Project. You’re blend technical applications with You can participate in live-streamed lectures or watch recorded lectures in your timeframe.

You need to have a conferred bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA and provide official academic transcripts to be considered for admission.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $406-$876/per credit hour

Fast Facts: UW-Stout is ranked #249 in Niche’s Top Public Universities in America category and #in 69 in Regional Universities Midwest by U.S. News and World Report

UW-Stout

5. Rochester Institute of Technology

As the school’s website states this is, “A degree driven by real-time employer demand.” You can earn the online MS in Environmental, Health, and Safety Management from Rochester Institute of Technology in 30-credit hours.

This curriculum is comprised of 18 hours of core courses, 6-12 hours of electives, and the choice of a Comprehensive Exam, Graduate Project, or Thesis. Among the classes you’ll take are Corporate Social Responsibility, EHS Internal Auditing, Environmental, Health and Safety Management, EHS Management System Design, etc. Depending on your choice, you’ll take Research Methods and Thesis Planning (thesis option) or Graduate Project (capstone option), or a written Comprehensive Exam. You may be able to transfer relevant coursework to the program with the approval of the department.

You’ll file a Graduate Application and provide transcripts showing completion of a bachelor’s degree, submit a resume/CV, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. You may also be required to provide GRE scores and two writing samples.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $1,237/per credit hour

Fast Facts: RIT ranks #52 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Value Schools and one of Niche’s Top Private Schools in America

RIT

6. Columbia Southern University

This Alabama school awards a MS in Occupational Safety and Health you can earn online and has a generous 18-credit hour transfer policy. The program is recognized as a Graduate Safety Practitioner® Qualified Academic Program by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.

The curriculum has core classes in Advanced Toxicology, Training and Development, Safety and Accident Prevention, Safety Engineering, as well as Research Methods. Courses in the concentration include Integrated Safety Management Systems, Business Ethics, Emergency Management, and System Safety Engineering. This program blends theory and technology to prepare you to develop strategies and health and safety plans, as well as provide management tools. The program is designed for working professionals and is one of the most flexible we’ve found, with no set start or complete dates and short, nine-week terms.

Admission begins with a free application and offers three options for online students: LifePace Learning, Term Enrollment, and Veterans Flexible Enrollment. You’re required to hold a baccalaureate degree and provide academic transcripts. Be prepared to submit additional documentation if requested.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $325/per credit hour

Fast Facts: CSU is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and was founded in 1993

CSU

7. Eastern Kentucky University

The College of Health Sciences at this Richmond, Kentucky university awards a Master of Public Health with an Environmental/Occupational Health & Sustainability specialty. This program offers classes in the evening, on Saturdays, and online for the convenience of working adults.

The CEPH accredited program has core classes and curriculum in Biostatistics, Public Health Organization and Administration, Introduction to Environmental Health, Research Methods in Public Health, as well as a Capstone Project. Studies in your concentration will cover Air Quality Assessment, Total Worker Health, and Environmental Toxicology. You’ll also complete an Environmental Health Applied Practice Experience and an Integrative Learning Experience prior to graduation. The department also offers an Industrial Hygiene Graduate Certificate.

Besides the application, you’ll need to have a bachelor’s degree, statement of personal and professional goals, letters of recommendation, as well as academic transcripts are required for admission. Be prepared to submit additional documentation if needed.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,900-$13,950/per academic year

Fast Facts: EKU ranks at #40 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Value Schools category and #25 in the publications Top Public Schools rankings

EKU

8. Indiana State University

Whether you’re looking for a MA or MS in Occupational Safety Management, Indiana State University has a degree for you. You even have the option to attend classes on the Terre Haute campus or 100% online.

The 33-credit hours curriculum requires you take research classes in Statistics for Experimental Research in Technology and Research Methods. You’ll then choose 12 hours from several subjects such as Human Factors/Ergonomics in Safety Management, Process Safety and Hazardous Waste Operations Management, Safety Legislation, Litigation, and Compliance, Administration Procedures for Occupational Safety Management, and others. Other courses can be taken outside of the department with approval and electives from within the College of Technology. The MA track requires you complete a thesis and the MS calls for you to complete a field research project.

To be considered for this program, you’ll make application for admission. Masters students must hold a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.7 GPA. You may need to provide GRE scores and other documents so you’ll want to discuss admission procedures with an advisor with the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $432-$562/per credit hour (NOTE: there is no residency requirement for online students)

Indiana State

9. Montana Tech – The University of Montana

If you have two years employment in the health and safety field, this hybrid MS in Industrial Hygiene may be for you. It’s designed to give you the tools to advance your career.

You’ll take 28-credit hours of core classes in a range of topics. Classes include Industrial Hygiene Management, Principles of Epidemiology, Sampling & Evaluation Of Health Hazards, Ergonomics for Industrial Hygienists, Sampling and Evaluation of Health Hazards Lab Residency (a 5 day on-campus laboratory held in the summer term), and more. The program offers elective courses in topics such as Respiratory Protection, Occupational and Community Noise, Radiological Health & Safety, and more. You’ll complete a written and oral exam to finish the degree. Be sure to check if your work experience and/or any previous academic courses can transfer as part of the 37-credit hour degree.

Admission requires you hold a baccalaureate degree and, as stated, have two years professional experience. You can apply online (with a $50 fee), and will be asked to provide official academic transcripts for all schools attended, letters of recommendation, as well as a resume. The GRE is not required for IH graduate students.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $261/per credit hour

Fast Fact: MTU is rated #15 in U.S. News and World Report’s Top Public Schools and Forbes included it at #448 in its Top Colleges 2021 ranking

MTU

10. Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Located, as the name implies, in Pennsylvania, Indiana, IUP provides a MS in Safety Sciences which is 100% online and a qualified program of the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.

This 36-credit hour curriculum can be completed, full-time, in 3 semesters (6 semesters part-time). Some of the classes offered are Preventing Unsafe Acts, Applied Industrial Hygiene, Accident Investigation, Safety Health and Environmental Administration, Disaster Preparedness, Human Relations in Safety, Radiological Health, etc.

You’ll need a baccalaureate degree in safety sciences to be eligible for admission. (If your degree was in a non-safety discipline, you may still be able to be admitted by completing some prerequisite coursework.) An application is required (with a $50 fee) and you’ll be asked provide official academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, resume/CV, as well as a personal goal statement.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $516-$593/per credit hour

Fast Facts: IUP is ranked #593 in Forbes Top Colleges 2021 and #156-#209 Top Public Schools by U.S. News and World Report

IUP

What are the Advantages of an Accelerated Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety? 

As the old saying goes, “time is money” and accelerated educational programs allow you to not only save money on tuition costs, but position you for job advancement more quickly. These programs tend to attract more dedicated, working students who are eager to advance their education, and are flexible in scheduling. In short, it’s easier than ever before for working adults to earn, or complete, their graduate education.

Accelerated programs are the same degrees as those offered on-campus and taught by the same faculty who teach on-campus. You won’t miss any crucial studies, it’s just that accelerated degrees are streamlined to provide faster, shorter, and more intensive class times.

Frequently, you’ll find that online programs have extremely generous transfer policies as well as accepting of work-life experiences accepted to reduce the total hours required. Since most online graduate programs are geared toward the working adult, admission requirements may be more lenient in awarding credits through College-Level Examination Program® (CLEP) exams, military training, work experiences.

How Do I Get a Job with OSHA?

OSHA is a division of the U.S. Department of Labor and has several health and safety positions across the country available for qualified applicants through the USAJOBS site. Some of the positions available include: Safety and Occupational Health Specialist, Program Analyst, Industrial Hygienist, Manager, Inspector, Electrical Engineer, and more. Other federal agencies may hire qualified health and safety personnel such as the Department of the Interior.

Twenty-five states are approved by OSHA to establish state plans (with federal regulations as a base) so you may also find OSHA jobs through those states’ employment sites.

You can apply through the USAJOBS link or you can explore the OSH positions listed on Indeed, PayScale, ZipRecruiter as well as GlassDoor. (These last sites may show state OSHA positions.)

Should I Get a Certification Instead of a Master’s?

Depending on how you want to advance in your career a combination of an advanced degree and certification is very attractive to most employers. In general, certification and a Master’s degree demonstrates to employers that you have additional training that best suits their needs.

There are several certifications available but these are some of the most recognized:

Board of Certified Safety Professionals, Certified Safety Professional (CSP)®

Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM), Certified Safety and Health Manager (CSHM®)

American Board of Industrial Hygiene (AIBH), Certified Industrial Hygienests (CIH)®

Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics (BCPE), Certified Professional Ergonomist

You can find more information and certification training sites on this OSHA site.

Related Rankings:

25 Best Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs

15 Best Master’s Online in Occupational Health and Safety Programs

10 Cheapest Online MPH Programs

The 10 Cheapest Online Psychology Programs

Affordable Online MHA Programs

The post 10 Fastest Online Master’s in Occupational Health and Safety appeared first on The Best Health Degrees.

Key Takeaways:

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Athens State University are two top schools for occupational health and online safety degree programs.
• The field has evolved significantly since the early 20th century, addressing severe workplace safety issues and improving working conditions.
• The programs offer comprehensive training in safety management, risk assessment, and emergency response
• Graduates are equipped with the necessary skills to manage and prevent workplace hazards.
• Advancing in this field often requires certifications such as the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP), and the curriculum frequently includes both foundational and specialized courses.

The best Occupational Health and Safety degree programs online teach students to create safe occupational environments and also train experts. In 2020, a report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries in 2019 report which cited a frightening statistic that a worker died every 99 minutes from a work-related injury.

Whenever we step outside of our homes, we’re at risk of being injured, made ill, or dying from unsafe public and workplace practices. At the turn of the 20th century, adult and child miners working in poorly ventilated and unsafe situations developed Black Lung Disease, were injured, or were killed. Workers in steel and automobile factories died as a result of unsafe practices due to an emphasis on production regardless of safety. In 1911, the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire stunned the country when 146 women, as a result of doors being locked in order to prevent theft, were killed jumping from windows to escape the inferno.

There are, sadly, more examples than we can cite here. To study ways to meet the obligations to create safe occupational environments, colleges and universities began academic programs to train experts to examine, analyze, and develop safety measures across a wide variety of occupations.

Best Health Degrees has looked at a range of schools to identify some of the best online bachelor’s degree programs in Occupational Health and Safety to help you find a program that suits your goals. We provide highlighted information to give you a general feel for coursework, admission requirements, cost, school reputability, etc., as well as pertinent school links. This ranking looks at information for first-year students, but transfer students for occupational safety and health will follow the same program guidelines.

Method: Ranking the Occupational Health and Safety Programs

To rank the 15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety Programs, Best Health Degrees editors researched accredited, trusted programs of all kinds. From our initial pool, we ranked programs according to price, accreditation, reputation, and salary potential, using data from IPEDS and Niche, U.S. News and World Report, and other higher education rating publications.

1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Here’s an online BS in Safety Management which is a Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) Qualified Academic Program (QAP). Additionally, it has a Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) program designation. This qualified academic program designation is beneficial for the pursuit of certification.

The 121-credit hour occupational health and safety curriculum begins with general education classes in Communication Theory and Skills, Physical and Life Science, and also Humanities. Core classes in the Safety Management major include studies in:

• Fundamentals of Occupational Safety and Health
• Construction Safety
• Ergonomics
• Industrial Hygiene
• Toxicology

Also offered are Environmental Compliance and Safety, Introduction to Health, Occupational, and Transportation Safety, as well as elective courses.

You’ll begin the admission process by completing a Worldwide and Online Campus application ($50 fee). You should expect to submit academic transcripts, ACT/SAT scores (recommended), FAFSA^®, and other documents as requested.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $10,296/per academic year

Fast Facts: This university ranks in US News and World Report as #4 in Best Schools for Veterans. It is also #5 in its Most Innovative Schools categories.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

2. Athens State University

This Alabama school has a BS in Occupational Health and Safety Management. Furthermore, the occupational safety degree is completely online.

This 124-credit-hour curriculum has a career focus and is highly flexible. You’ll need general education classes as well as major prerequisites for this online degree program. Among the courses are topics in:

• Risk Management and Security in the Workplace
• Injury Damage Incidents Evaluation and Reporting
• Environmental Health and Regulation
• Ergonomics and Human Factors
• Managing the Public Safety and Health Emergency
• Safety Training and Development

You may also participate in a management internship as well as a career seminar in your studies. Additional specifics of the program are on the departmental website.

You’ll start your enrollment process with the $30 application. Admission requires you to have at least 36 transferrable hours from an accredited study prior to admission to the OHSM occupational health and safety program and a 2.0 GPA.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $225/per credit hour

Fast Facts: ASU was founded in 1822 and holds institutional accreditation from The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) 

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

3. The University of Arizona Global Campus

You have a choice of delivery options with this BS in Public Health with an Environmental and Occupational Health Emphasis from UA. This occupational safety program is through UA’s Global Campus or the Tucson campus.

With this four-year occupational health and safety degree, you’ll cover general education coursework as well as Public Health classes. Some of the classes you’ll take are:

• Introduction to Public Health
• Global Health
• Introductory Biology (with lab)
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Introduction to Environmental and Occupational Health
• Health Care in the United States

Classes are also provided in Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, and Topics in Environmental Justice.

This occupational safety program is through the school’s Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health and the admission is a two-tier process. The admission process starts by applying to Arizona University as well as a submission of an application ($50 for Arizona residents and $80 for non-Arizona residents). ACT and SAT test scores aren’t required, and a high school diploma (or GED). Other information, such as academic transcripts, may be required as well. Once you’ve completed pre-requisite courses at AU, you’ll make a supplemental application for the Public Health Major.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $12,716-$36,743/per academic year

Fast Facts: U.S. News and World Report rates it #99 in Best Global Universities with Forbes ranking AU #62 in its America’s Best Value Colleges 2021

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

4. University of Wisconsin – Whitewater

You can earn a BS in Occupational Safety degree online from this ABET-accredited program at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. This is a Qualified Academic Programs (QAPs) program.

This completely online, 120-credit-hour occupational safety curriculum covers:

• Introduction to Occupational Safety & Health
• Occupational Safety Management
• Personal and Public Safety
• Ergonomics, Principles, and Methods of Industrial Hygiene
• Behavioral Aspects of Accident Investigation
• Principles of Environmental Management
• Personal and Public Safety

The curriculum also has “unique requirements” in physics, chemistry, biological foundations, human anatomy, and also physiology.

Your admission begins with an application. Then you submit official high school transcripts or GRE/HSED. ACT scores are optional and are used for English placement if submitted.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $389/per credit hour

Fast Facts: Niche categorizes UW-W #186/691 in its Top Public Universities in America and U.S. News and World Report ranks it #11 Regional Public Colleges and Universities 

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

5. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland is a well-respected online campus and awards a BS in Environmental Management through its Healthcare and Science division. This occupational safety program prepares you to evaluate and develop programs to manage environmental risk factors for human health.

The 120-credit-hour curriculum includes general education classes along with the major’s requirements. You’ll enroll in classes in:

• Environmental Regulations and Policy
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Environmental Technology
• Human Health and Disease
• Environmental Technology

You’ll also be able to choose classes from either a Sustainability or Toxicology and Hazard Control focus to align with your particular career goals. Classes are completely online or in a hybrid format.

Completion of an online application ($50 fee) begins the admission process to UMGC. The school asks for copies of all academic transcripts and that you submit a FAFSA^®.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $7,560-$12,336/per academic year

Fast Facts: Forbes ranks this school #14 in its Top Public Colleges ranking and U.S. News and World Report considers it in the Top 100 Best Global Universities

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

6. Oregon State University

Are you in an undergraduate degree program at Oregon State University, or do you want to enhance a postbaccalaureate degree? If so, you can earn a minor through the online academic programs at Oregon State University in Environmental and Occupational Health. The occupational safety minor offers a focus of study on public health prevention strategies and more.

This minor curriculum is a 27-credit-hour field of study. You’ll take required courses in:

• Occupational Health
• Foundations of Environmental Health
• Public Health Toxicology

The minor also offers classes in:

• Agricultural Safety and Health
• Food Law, Safety and Health Standards Law
• Emergency and Disaster Management
• Sustainability for the Public Good
• Population, Consumption, and Environment

The courses provide the scientific knowledge and experience to influence policies in public health, the environment, and also occupational health and safety.

Application for postbaccalaureate students requires you to have an accredited bachelor’s degree (with a 2.5 GPA), provide academic transcripts (showing completion of English Composition and College Algebra), and a personal statement of objectives. An application requires a $65 fee.

Estimated Tuition Costs: $326 per credit hour

Fast Facts: OSU ranks #4 in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. And Forbes includes the school in its Top Colleges 2021 rankings.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

7. Oakland University

The 100 percent online BS in Environmental Health and Safety from this Rochester, Michigan school is offered through the Public and Environmental Wellness department.

The occupational safety curriculum requires completion of the school’s general education as well as EHS degree courses. You’ll take:

• Introduction to Organic and Biological Chemistry
• Human Biology
• Basic Statistics for Health Sciences
• Introduction to Psychology

Major classes provided are:

• Fire Science, Fire Prevention, and Protection
• Safety and Health Administration Programs
• Occupational Safety and Health
• Introduction to Ergonomics

A varied slate of electives in Hospital Safety and Health, Radiation Safety, Health Care Safety, etc. is provided.

Admission for first-year students requests you have an overall 3.2 high school GPA. The school no longer requires ACT or SAT scores. Additionally, the school may ask you for additional documents, such as academic transcripts. And, of course, you’ll need to complete an application with your first name, last name, telephone number, and digital signature to get started.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $478-$562/per credit hour

Fast Facts: Oakland University ranks #122 in US News and World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs. It is also #262/691 in Niche’s Top Public Colleges in America.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

8. North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

Known to students as A&T Online, this division of NC A&T State University awards a BS in Environmental Health & Safety requiring 126-credit hours.

The occupational safety curriculum prepares students to work in Safety and Health careers and offers an Environmental Health and Safety Management or Science Focus. Depending on your occupational safety focus, classes include topics in:

• Environmental Health and Safety
• Human Factors
• First Aid and Safety
• Environmental Risk Assessment
• Environmental & Occupational Epidemiology
• Environmental Ethics

A&T Online Admission criteria indicate you must meet the admission requirements for the University of North Carolina. Among the materials needed are an application and academic transcripts. But, contact the Office of Admissions to determine what other information they need.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $120-$576/credit hour

Fast Facts: Ranked #8 in U.S. News and World Report’s Public Historically Black College and Universities and is one of Forbes’ Top Colleges in 2021

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

9. Eastern Kentucky University

The BS in Occupational Safety at EKU is both on-campus and online. Students learn ways to keep workers safe and also how to implement corrective safety measures. On completion of the safety degree program, you’ll qualify for the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP) as the program is a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals or BCSP.

This occupational safety major includes classes in:

• Principles of Occupational Safety and Health
• Measures of Safety Performance
• Human Factors in Occupational Safety
• Safety and Health Program Management
• Environmental Law and Management
• Process Safety Management
• Safety Training Strategies
• a Senior Capstone Project

You may also qualify for an Internship with departmental approval. This Eastern Kentucky University curriculum is 120-credit hours and is the same for online students as for those attending the Richmond, KY campus.

You’ll begin by completing an application and providing academic transcripts. Prospective students need a 2.5 GPA. ACT or SAT scores are recommended, but not required.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $9,876-$19,948/per academic year

Fast Facts: U.S. News and World Report rates EKU’s online programs #67 as a Best Online Bachelor’s degree program.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

10. Indiana State University

Here’s an online/hybrid BS in Safety Management that requires you to attend a one-week residency on the Terre Haute campus, during the summer of your junior or senior year. This is an ABET accredited program.

Among the classes, the occupational safety curriculum includes foundational courses such as:

• Industrial Organizational Psychology
• Industrial Supervision
• Survey of Management

You’ll enroll in classes in:

• Industrial Hygiene
• Industrial Accident Prevention
• Introduction to Industrial Health and Safety
• Administration of Industrial Health and Safety Programs
• Current Issues and Training Concepts in Industrial Health and Safety

You may also qualify for an internship (typically paid) which requires approval.

A 2.0 GPA, academic transcripts, proof of financial support, and other documents are needed for admission along with an application. ACT/SAT scores don’t appear to be required for this occupational safety and health degree program.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $337-$438/per credit hour

Fast Facts: ISU ranks #250 in Forbes‘ Public Colleges in America and it ranks in the top 200 of U.S. News and World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

11. University of Alaska – Anchorage

You can earn a BS in Occupational Safety and Health from UA-A, the only such program in Alaska, which features job training internships and other practical experiences. Courses are online and during the evenings.

Some of the occupational safety core curriculum topics are:

• Human Factors
• Injury Prevention and Risk Management
• Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene
• Risk Management for Safety and Health
• Principles of Ergonomics

You can choose 9 hours of electives from Selected Topics in Occupational Safety and Health as well as Advanced Occupational Safety and Health Internship. You’ll complete a senior Capstone Project applying your education to real-world situational problems.

Admission consideration for the occupational safety program asks you have a high school diploma (or GED certificate) and you’ll self-report your GPA (a minimum 2.5 is required) when you submit an application. Official academic transcripts will be requested. Although they are not used in admission consideration, standardized tests are used in determining math and writing course levels.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $8,622 to $25,228 per academic year

Fast Fact: UA-A ranks #510 in Forbes Top Colleges 2021 and #71 in the Regional Universities West category of U.S. News and World Report.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

12. Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Depending on your ultimate objectives, the online BS in Occupational Safety and Health in Durant, Oklahoma may suit your safety degree needs.

Courses in this occupational safety bachelor’s program include:

• Drugs in Society
• Industrial Hygiene
• Hazardous Materials, Waste Management, Acoustics, Vibration, and Noise Control
• Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health
• Safety Training and Instructional Techniques

Furthermore, students choose electives from topics such as General Safety, Management, and Organizational Behavior, Special Studies, and an Internship. The entire curriculum requires 124-credit hours.

For Southeastern Oklahoma State University admission, applicants need a minimum of a high school diploma (GED) and a 2.7 overall GPA (or a 20 in ACT/SAT testing). Prepare to provide more documents, like academic transcripts, if the school requests them. An application ($55 fee) starts your admission process to the occupational safety and health program.

Estimated Tuition Costs: $293 per credit hour

Fast Facts: Niche ranks Southeastern Oklahoma State University (SOSU) #695 Colleges with the Best Academics in America and U.S. News and World Report ranks it #50-#66 Top Public Schools.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

13. Missouri Southern State University

The online BS in Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) degree is one of only 28 in the US that has accreditation from the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council. And, the (EHAC) is the gold standard in the field.

Occupational safety and health general education classes are part of this 120-credit hour occupational safety curriculum and the major studies are diverse. Among the EHS classes offered are:

• Epidemiology
• Disease Vector Control
• Food Safety, Environmental Health and Safety
• Industrial Hygiene, Environmental Risk and Safety Management
• Environmental Toxicology

You’ll also complete a Field Experience by submission of a proposal and approval of the EHS Program Director, Department Chair, and School Dean as necessary.

Freshmen need a high school diploma with a 2.25 GPA or higher, be in the top 50% of their class, and submission of ACT/ACT test scores for admission consideration. You should prepare to submit academic transcripts and additional documents as requested. An application is available online. (NOTE: This program is Fast Track Incentive Grant Eligible.)

Estimated Tuition Cost: $310/per credit hour

Fast Facts: MSSU opened in 1937 and US News and World Report rank it in the top 15 of its Top Public Schools.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

14. California University of Pennsylvania

If you have an Associate Degree in a related field, you may want to explore this occupational safety degree completion program. Located in California, Pennsylvania, Cal U provides an online BS in Industrial Technology Management which can prepare you for a position as a Safety Manager.

Coursework involves studies in:

• OSHA General Industrial Safety
• Technical Supervision
• Quality Planning and Analysis
• Concepts and Issues in Technology Management
• Technical Supervision
• an Internship or Research Project

The occupational safety degree requires you to complete general education studies in Humanities, Fine Arts, Natural and Social Sciences, Math, English, and Health and Wellness.

Cal U accepts either an institutional application or the Common App and both require an application fee. Official academic transcripts are necessary. Optional materials include ACT scores or SAT scores, personal essays, and letters of reference.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $328 per credit hour

Fast Facts: The Princeton Review ranks Cal U among the Best in the Northeast categories. It is also #204 in US News and World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s Programs.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

15. University of Central Missouri

You’re given three options for earning this BS in Occupational Safety with specialties in Environmental, Safety, or Health Science Management concentrations. 

You’ll take classes in:

• Environmental Compliance
• Applied Sciences for Professional Studies
• Industrial Hygiene
• Ergonomics in Safety and Health
• Accident Investigation
• Occupational Risk Management
• Systems Safety
• Human Biology

An internship is required. You may consider enrolling in the Occupational Safety BS/Occupational Safety Management MS Accelerated Program. This occupational safety and health program is either online, hybrid, or on campus. You’ll earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years as opposed to the six typically needed for both degrees.

UCM considers a wide scope of factors in considering students for occupational safety program admission. Among application considerations are your high school GPA, letters of recommendation, the personal statement letter, as well as activities in your community involvement. UCM is ACT/SAT test-optional.

Estimated Tuition Cost: $8,306-$15,434/per academic year

Fast Facts: UCM ranks #16 in US News and World Report’s Top Public Schools category. It is also one of Forbes’ magazine picks for America’s Top Colleges.

School: Interested? Check out the program site!

What is Occupational Health and Safety?

In 1970, President Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and created federal health standards and regulations across the country to protect, not only workers but people in general. Federal, state, and local government regulatory agencies began requiring safe and healthy work environments.

Health and safety professionals enforce health regulations and regulatory compliance and manage employee safety education. They also work to eliminate potential workplace hazards, and safety hazards, and implement safety programs and corrective safety measures. These professionals can be safety managers or safety specialists.

Why Should You Attend an Online Program?

With the widespread availability of computers and the Internet in the 1990s, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic of the 21st century, we’ve seen more colleges and universities develop online opportunities to earn college degrees. These online occupational health and safety degrees are the same programs as the ones on campus with the same curriculum and faculty members. Students learn problem-solving skills and knowledge to build a strong foundation for their careers in occupational safety.

In an online occupational safety BS program, students learn and earn degrees in less time and with less money. If you need to work as you pursue one of these occupational safety degrees, online classes allow you to continue working and help you to have a more balanced work-life experience. The National Center for Education Statistics reported that in 2000, 53% of undergraduate students worked full-time. In 2020, US News and World Report cited a study by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce that found close to 70% work while enrolled in college.

What is the Curriculum?

An occupational safety degree program prepares students for roles in which they proactively keep workers safe. Online courses typically are more intensive and typically shorter in duration and offered in short 5-8 weeks segments. Listed below are some of the classes and topics of study in an occupational safety bachelor’s program.

• Construction Safety and Construction Site Safety
• Hazardous Materials Management
• Corporate Compliance
• Environmental Science and Hazardous Substances
• Biological Sciences
• Air Quality and Fire Safety
• Development of Safety Programs
• Management Techniques and Organizational Leadership
• Emergency Management
• Fire Protection and Fire Hazards
• OSHA Regulations and OSHA Standards
• Occupational Safety Engineering
• Automated Technology
• Risk Identification and Countermeasures
• Workplace Risk Factors and Material Handling
• Public Health
• Workplace Safety and Employee Safety Education
• Workers Compensation

How Much Does an Online Program Cost?

Frequently, schools offer online students in-state tuition regardless of the state of residence. This can broaden your access to schools and program options without adding a significant out-of-state tuition cost. Financial aid is also available to qualified students.

The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) is integral in allowing students to cross states to earn an online degree and other educational services. You may want to make sure the school(s) want to attend accept students from your state.

You’ll want to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA^®. Even if you don’t think you need financial assistance through grants or loans, the FAFSA is used for scholarship consideration as well as determining the amount of federal student aid for which you may qualify, if you choose.

Can You Get an Occupational Safety Degree Online?

Short answer? Yes, many schools have a degree in occupational safety or an online occupational safety program. Furthermore, the majority of online degree programs hold regional accreditation from a Department of Education-approved organization, such as the Higher Learning Commission.

This is the case for bachelor’s of science in occupational safety degrees and master’s degrees. All the universities and colleges in this ranking hold, at minimum, regional accreditation. But, accreditation doesn’t necessarily stop there, as individual programs can hold accreditation as well.

Accreditation for Occupational Health

The programs in this ranking are all accredited by independent agencies such as the Higher Learning Commission and as well as other Department of Education-recognized agencies. Some programs have specialty accreditation. You should look for programs accredited by the Applied Science Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and the BS is a Qualified Academic Program (QAP) by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The QAP meets the credentialing requirement for Certified Safety Professional (CSP) certification. 

ABET is a non-governmental agency that accredits programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology and assures you the program meets quality standards. There are other program recognitions, such as those offered by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC). Additionally, there are professional organizations where occupational health professionals can earn certifications or a Safety and Health Certificate.

What Can You Do with a Health and Safety Degree? 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and online job sites indicate there are numerous OSH careers available for bachelor’s and master’s degree holders. Careers as Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) directors, technicians, and analysts can be found in hospitals, healthcare systems, manufacturing, and industry, local, state, and federal government agencies, consulting services, and more.

One of the best descriptions for the field is from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) OSH professionals analyze potential workplace hazards and ensure that safety regulations are identified and addressed. They use processes to track compliance through analysis and written reports of the investigation of accidents, incidents, complaints, and much more.

Occupational Health and Safety Jobs

The BLS projects the overall employment of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians to grow 7 percent from 2020 to 2030. This is about the average growth for all jobs. So the job outlook for this career path is good!

There are many career paths for occupational safety professionals listed by the BLS in the private and public sectors. They include entry-level positions and leadership positions in:

• Emergency Management Directors
• Health and Safety Engineers
• Environmental Science and Protection
• Construction and Building Inspectors
• Industrial Hygienists
• Fire Inspectors
• Environmental Scientists and Specialists
• Health and Safety Engineers
• Certified Safety Professional
• Associate Safety Professionals
• How Much Can You Make with an OSH Occupational Safety and Health Degree? 

Individuals can earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree online in occupational safety. Completing a degree program will prepare students to earn more in their current roles or to attend graduate school. Listed below are some jobs with the average salary of professionals in occupational safety and health.

• Emergency Management Directors – $76,730 per year
• Construction and Building Inspectors – $61,640 per year
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialist – $76,290 per year
• Health and Safety Engineer – $99,040 per year
• Occupational Health and Safety Technician – $74,870 per year
• Fire Inspectors – $63,080 per year
• Associate Safety Professional

OHS Professional Resources

• American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
• American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
• Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)
• Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA)
• Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S)
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
• The Safety Pro Podcast
• National Safety Council (NSC)

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