The Environmental Public Health (EPH) program at Fitchburg State combines the study of public health with environmental sciences. The program focuses on the health implications of interactions between humans and the environment they are exposed to, including natural hazards, air and water pollution, global environmental issues, and use and conservation of Earth's resources.

What you'll learn

As a student in Fitchburg State's Environmental Public Health bachelor's degree, you'll learn fundamental concepts of public health, including social determinants of health, epidemiology, and research methods for public health, along with methods to map, analyze, and predict public health concerns. You'll develop the knowledge and skills needed to shape public health policy and interventions from an environmental perspective.

Why environmental public health is a great option

There are a range of career pathways for students earning a degree in EPH, from community and global health to epidemiology to public health administration. You'll have the opportunity to improve the lives of individuals throughout the commonwealth and the country. As climate change worsens, for example, there will be a significant impact on the health of the nation as changes in food production, clean water access, and air pollution will increase the level of chronic illness and infectious disease. Graduates of the program will be able to advocate for changes that ease those burdens on communities.

Available internships and experiential learning opportunities

You'll be required to complete a capstone project for this major, such as an internship. Some example include working in public health departments, not-for-profit organizations focused on food access, water treatment facilities, and parks and services.

Career options available to graduates

There are a variety of career options available to students with an environmental public health degree. You may seek careers such as environmental health technicians, environmental scientists, public health researchers, health program coordinators, public health information officers, conservation officers, or in public policy administration.

You can begin the program this summer with our online courses

Begin your study of the health science focus of the major by taking Anatomy and Physiology online this summer.  Alternatively, you may choose to take foundational courses in the social science aspects of the major by selecting Human Geography, Sociology, or Economics.

Register for an online summer class and get started on your journey today!