MS in Occupational & Environmental Health Sciences
Tulane University’s online Master of Science in Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences (MS-OEIH) is an ABET-accredited program that prepares students to identify, analyze, and manage workplace health hazards. The curriculum integrates public health principles with analytical methods in chemistry and statistics, focusing on risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and exposure control. You'll gain practical experience in the field and advanced preparation for certification as a board-certified industrial hygienist.
With a focus on scientific and engineering principles to anticipate and prevent workplace hazards, graduates are poised to take on leadership roles in creating healthier work environments. Graduates of the program receive one year of credit toward the experience requirement for the Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) exam, fast-tracking their certification process.
Applicants must meet the school's admission and application requirements for entrance into master's programs at the WSPH.
Degree Program Requirements & Competencies
Please visit the university course catalog for:
Competencies
- Apply scientific principles to recognize health hazards.
- Evaluate health hazards using appropriate techniques.
- Analyze data to improve exposure risk judgements.
- Communicate the nature of health hazards.
- Examine remediation strategies for health hazards using the hierarchy of controls.
Occupational Health & Environmental Sciences FAQs
Why did the program change its name from Industrial Hygiene to Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences?
Industrial hygiene remains a core part of the curriculum, but today's workplace health professionals need expertise that extends beyond traditional industrial settings. The name Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences better reflects the breadth of the field and the wide range of careers available to graduates.
Students continue to study industrial hygiene while also learning about environmental exposures, occupational health, exposure science, risk assessment, environmental health, and emerging workplace challenges. The updated name helps prospective students better understand the program's comprehensive approach and reflects the interdisciplinary nature of modern workforce and environmental health.
Note: Tulane does still offer a 15-credit Certificate in Industrial Hygiene.
Will I still learn industrial hygiene?
Absolutely. Industrial hygiene remains a foundational component of the curriculum. Students gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to identify, evaluate, and control workplace hazards while also developing expertise in the broader occupational and environmental health sciences that employers increasingly seek.
What is industrial hygiene?
Industrial hygiene is the science of anticipating, recognizing, evaluating, and controlling workplace hazards that can affect workers' health. Industrial hygienists identify chemical, biological, physical, and ergonomic hazards and develop solutions to prevent injuries and illnesses before they occur.
Is industrial hygiene about cleanliness?
No. Despite the name, industrial hygiene has little to do with cleaning or sanitation. The field focuses on protecting worker health by reducing exposures to hazards such as chemicals, airborne contaminants, noise, heat, radiation, infectious agents, and ergonomic risks.
What kinds of hazards do industrial hygienists manage?
Industrial hygienists work with a wide range of workplace hazards, including:
- Airborne chemicals, vapors, dusts, and fumes
- Indoor air quality
- Mold and biological hazards
- Noise and hearing conservation
- Heat and cold stress
- Radiation
- Ventilation systems
- Ergonomic risks
- Hazardous materials
Where do industrial hygienists work?
Industrial hygienists are employed in nearly every industry, including:
- Manufacturing
- Healthcare
- Energy and petrochemicals
- Construction
- Government agencies
- Consulting firms
- Research institutions
- Universities
- Transportation
- Public health organizations
What careers are available in industrial hygiene?
Graduates may work as:
- Industrial Hygienist
- Occupational Health Specialist
- Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Professional
- Exposure Scientist
- Risk Assessment Specialist
- Health and Safety Consultant
- Compliance Manager
- Occupational Health Researcher
What skills do industrial hygienists use?
Industrial hygienists combine science and problem-solving skills. They often:
- Collect workplace exposure samples
- Monitor air quality and noise
- Interpret laboratory results
- Assess workplace risks
- Recommend engineering controls
- Develop safety programs
- Communicate findings to employers and employees
Is industrial hygiene part of public health?
Yes. Industrial hygiene is a specialized area of public health focused on preventing disease and injury in the workplace. By protecting workers from harmful exposures, industrial hygienists improve individual health while also strengthening businesses and communities. What's the difference between industrial hygiene and occupational safety?
The two fields work closely together but have different focuses. Industrial hygiene primarily addresses health hazards that can cause illness over time, such as chemical exposures or excessive noise. Occupational safety focuses more on preventing acute injuries from incidents such as falls, electrical hazards, or machinery accidents. Many professionals work across both areas.
Is there demand for industrial hygienists?
Yes. Organizations continue to seek professionals who can help protect employees, comply with regulations, manage environmental and occupational risks, and create healthier workplaces. Demand spans both the public and private sectors.
Is this program right for me if I don't want to work in manufacturing?
Yes. While industrial hygienists have traditionally worked in manufacturing, today's graduates work in healthcare, biotechnology, government, consulting, construction, energy, higher education, environmental organizations, and many other industries. The skills you develop apply anywhere people work and where environmental exposures affect health.
Department Interim Chair: Felicia Rabito, PhD, MPH
Program Director: Rustin Reed, PhD, CIH, CSP
Department Administrator: Mykiel Chambers
Email: enhs@tulane.edu
Phone: 504.988.5374
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