Environmental Health

Environmental factors are the predominant determinants of health in individuals and communities. The twentieth century saw public health triumphs in many parts of the “developed” world, providing safe drinking water, clean air, and lead-free gasoline. In many areas of the world, however, these problems remain critical public health challenges. Now we face such challenges as global climate change, “mad cow”-like illnesses caused by novel infectious agents, and environmental pollutants that act like hormones.

Research in the Department of Environmental Health has its scientific roots in toxicology and epidemiology, the disciplines that tell us most of what we know about environmental hazards. The department houses research laboratories in immunotoxicology and exposure biology and is home to a Superfund Research Program that investigates reproductive and developmental contaminants frequently encountered at hazardous waste sites. The department’s research agenda is also firmly rooted in community health and environmental justice; for example, a collaborative project with public officials and community groups seeks to better the health of low-income families by improving conditions in public housing.

Members of our faculty are innovative and committed teachers whose doors are open to students in the Master of Public Health, Master of Science, and Doctoral programs. In teaching, we combine a strong foundation in environmental health science with an emphasis on public health practice, bringing the real world into the classroom at every opportunity. Our graduates exemplify the same twin commitments to science and community as they work to bring about a healthier environment for all.

Academic Programs

The Department of Environmental Health offers the Master of Public Health (MPH) degree program with a concentration in environmental health, a Master of Science (MS) in Environmental Health, and the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Environmental Health.