Environmental Health Science Program
Environmental Health Science Program
Environmental Health Science (EHS) is an interdisciplinary field that combines natural and social sciences to address issues related to human health and environmental protection. The EHS program at East Central University is the only Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health Science offered in Oklahoma—and has been continuously accredited by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (NEHSPAC) since its founding in 1970.
Why Choose ECU’s EHS Program?
- Oklahoma’s only BS-EHS program
- Nationally accredited since 1970
- Prepares students for careers in both public and private sectors
- Strong foundation for graduate study in Environmental Health or Environmental Science
- One of only 30 nationally accredited programs by NEHSPAC
Graduates are equipped to become environmental health specialists and environmental protection professionals—playing vital roles in public safety, regulatory compliance, and sustainability.
Program Requirements
- Major: Minimum of 55 credit hours; no minor required
- Minor Option: A viable minor in EHS is also available for students majoring in related natural or social science fields
The EHS program supports ECU’s mission by offering a rigorous and impactful academic path that prepares students to lead in the fields of environmental health and safety.
Nationally Accredited Programs
East Central University’s Environmental Health Science (EHS) program prepares students to protect human health and the environment through a rigorous, interdisciplinary education. ECU offers the only Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health Science in Oklahoma, and the program has been nationally accredited since 1970 by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (NEHSPAC). ECU is proud to be one of only 28 institutions in the country with this prestigious accreditation.
Program Options
Environmental Health Science
This option prepares students for careers focused on protecting human health from environmental hazards and preserving the natural environment.
- 52 credit hours in Environmental Sciences
- 31 credit hours in related disciplines (Biology, Chemistry, Math, Computer Science, and Physics)
- Includes a 3–6 credit hour professional internship at an approved site
Public Health
Designed for students interested in careers with health departments and other public health organizations.
- 53 credit hours in Environmental Sciences
- 37 credit hours in supporting disciplines
- Includes a 3–6 credit hour professional internship
Environmental Management and Natural Resources
Prepares students for roles managing physical or biological resources in the natural environment.
- 44 credit hours in Environmental Sciences
- 37–39 credit hours in related coursework
- Includes a 3–6 credit hour professional Internship
The Dr. Raniyah Ramadan Center for Undergraduate Research and Learning (CURL)
Opened in 2015, CURL enhances research opportunities for ECU undergraduates in Environmental Health Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology. The center houses advanced laboratories in:
- Microscopy
- Cellular & Molecular Biology
- Inorganic & Analytical Chemistry
- High-Temperature Materials Chemistry
- Environmental Science
CURL provides an exceptional space for students to gain hands-on research experience and contribute to real-world scientific solutions.