Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health
The University of Washington’s Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health is a great fit for students who love science, and who are passionate about using their scientific skills to address human health issues related to the built and natural environments. Environmental Health is designated as a STEM discipline (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) by the U.S.department of Homeland Security. This applied science program provides professional training for the next generation of Environmental Public Health practitioners. From water quality to work place safety, environmental health majors are engaged in problem solving to keep communities safe and healthy.
Questions about our degree programs?
This program is one of only 29 undergraduate programs in the U.S. accredited by the National Environmental Health Science & Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC).
Interested in an MS or PhD degree? You may qualify for in-state tuition if you reside in one of 16 Western states and territories. Learn more
CURRENT STUDENT PROFILE
Deanna Ly
Deanna Ly loves the hands-on nature of both the technical and scientific work in Environmental Health and would eventually like to start her own nonprofit focused on the impact of environmental exposures on child health. "Environmental health is universal – it incorporates everything from the air we breathe to the water we drink."
ALUMNI PROFILE
Vivian Yu
Vivian Yu graduated with her B.S. in Environmental Health in 2011. She earned her M.D. in 2017 from Georgetown University School of Medicine, and is current an OBGYN resident.
Hands-on experience
Environmental Health is an applied science, and as such as students are required to complete a 400-hour internship as part of the program. Students also have the opportunity to work with faculty in research labs.
After graduation
Graduates are prepared to enter graduate and professional programs such as medical school. But many students go directly to work, starting their careers as Environmental Health Specialists, Occupational Health and Safety Managers, Public Health Advisers and more.
Paid research opportunities for underrepresented students
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), one of the largest research agencies dedicated to improving human health, has a funded opportunity for underrepresented students at UW to conduct environmental health science-related research alongside faculty in the School of Public Health.