Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety Bachelor of science degree
Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety
Bachelor of science degree
663e088c-0e3d-44a5-86b0-f525e586751b | 129099
Overview
Become an environmental, health and safety champion by helping industries produce goods and services that avoid environmental contamination, that uses less water and precious resources, and that avoid subjecting workers to hazardous conditions and materials.
The environmental sustainability, health and safety BS degree prepares you to work as an environmental sustainability, health and safety project and program specialist and manager for organizations in industry and government. The major teaches you to be champions of environmental sustainability and health and safety in industry and society. Graduates of our program help industries produce goods and services without contaminating the environment, without subjecting the workers to hazardous conditions and chemicals, and using less energy and fewer precious resources. The major is focused on responsibility and accountability for environmental, health and safety impacts of human activities and being good stewards of the products we make and the services we provide. Our graduates work for environmental protection organizations, Fortune 100 companies, environmental consultancies, universities, and government agencies such as the EPA, OSHA, and NYSDEC.
You will be prepared to eliminate, reduce, and control the release of pollutants into the environment and to manage health and safety hazards associated with an organization’s activities, products, and services. You will gain a diverse skill set based on a strong foundation in basic sciences; applied environmental, health and safety science and technology; sustainability and social responsibility, and the basic tools of team building, effective communication, and leadership. Program graduates develop solutions for real-life environmental, health and safety problems, and drive organizations towards environmental sustainability.
Make a difference right away
The most rewarding aspect of an environmental sustainability, health and safety career is that you can start making a difference right away. There is just so much that can be done at every level of effort that you'll feel good about your contribution from the first day on the job. And, you don't have to wait until graduation to begin helping the environment. Environmental sustainability, health and safety students start their first cooperative education jobs in the spring of their third year. Our co-op students are especially helpful to the organizations for which they work because they are qualified and ready to take on some of the many environmental projects that the organizations seem never to have the time to otherwise get done.
Program educational objectives
Program mission statement: Create and maintain a high-quality, practitioner-oriented educational program in the forefront of environmental sustainability, health and safety principles and practices that will allow our graduates to be successful environmental, health and safety practitioners who can lead their organizations toward sustainability.
The program educational objectives of the environmental sustainability, health and safety program are to produce graduates who are prepared with the depth of knowledge, breadth of experiences and an understanding of professionalism that will enable them to:
- Attain professional employment in the field of environmental sustainability, health and safety or any other closely related field.
- Pursue additional education and/or attain professional certification (Examples: CHMM, CSP, QEP, etc.)
- Attain increasing levels of responsibility and leadership in their chosen field.
- Participate in organizations or activities that serve the environmental sustainability, health and safety profession and/or contribute to the ESHS of the community.
Cooperative education
Cooperative education, or co-op, is an increasingly valuable integrated, co-curricular experience required by many programs in the college. Students gain real-world experience and make life-long professional connections while earning a salary, which may help offset college costs. Students in the environmental sustainability, health and safety programs are required to complete four co-op blocks. This typically includes one spring, one fall, and two summer terms, alternating periods of full-time study with full-time paid work experience in their career field. In some circumstances, other forms of experiential education, such as study abroad, research, or military service, may be used to fulfill part of the co-op requirement. Each student is assigned a co-op advisor to assist in identifying and applying to co-op opportunities.
Industries
Latest News
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April 29, 2019
![Four men and women stand holding star-shaped glass awards.]()
College of Engineering Technology highlights alumni rising stars during campus ceremonies
Five alumni from RIT’s College of Engineering Technology were honored with Rising Star awards during a campus reception last month. Given to alumni who graduated from CET within the past five to 10 years, the awardees were recognized for outstanding achievements early in their careers, for significant public service contributions and in helping to advance the careers of new professionals.
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March 30, 2018
![Oren Cohn poses for a photo in his RIT Ambulance uniform in front of one of the ambulance vehicles.]()
Student earns national recognition for EMS service
Oren Cohn, RIT Ambulance chief of operations, was honored as EMS Provider of the Year by the National Collegiate EMS Foundation. Cohn was recognized for his leadership role with the all-volunteer campus ambulance team.
Curriculum
Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety, BS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| CHMG-141 |
LAS Perspective 5 (natural science inquiry): General & Analytical Chemistry I
This is a general chemistry course for students in the life and physical sciences. College chemistry is presented as a science based on empirical evidence that is placed into the context of conceptual, visual, and mathematical models. Students will learn the concepts, symbolism, and fundamental tools of chemistry necessary to carry on a discourse in the language of chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the transformation of these bonds through chemical reactions. The fundamentals of organic chemistry are introduced throughout the course to emphasize the connection between chemistry and the other sciences.
|
3 |
| CHMG-145 |
LAS Perspective 5 (natural science inquiry): General & Analytical Chemistry I Lab
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-141 lecture material. The course emphasizes laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. Topics include: gravimetric, volumetric, thermal, titration and spectrophotometric analyses, and the use of these techniques to analyze chemical reactions.
|
1 |
| CHMG-142 |
General & Analytical Chemistry II
The course covers the thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical reactions. The relationship between energy and entropy change as the driving force of chemical processes is emphasized through the study of aqueous solutions. Specifically, the course takes a quantitative look at: 1) solubility equilibrium, 2) acid-base equilibrium, 3) oxidation-reduction reactions and 4) chemical kinetics.
|
3 |
| CHMG-146 |
General & Analytical Chemistry II Lab
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-142 lecture material. The course emphasizes the use of experiments as a tool for chemical analysis and the reporting of results in formal lab reports. Topics include the quantitative analysis of a multicomponent mixture using complexation and double endpoint titration, pH measurement, buffers and pH indicators, the kinetic study of a redox reaction, and the electrochemical analysis of oxidation reduction reactions.
|
1 |
| ESHS-100 |
Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety Seminar
This course will present the key concepts of environmental sustainability, health and safety through experiential learning and the perspective of professional practitioners. Through a series of field trips, presentations, and discussions, students will learn how EHS professionals function in the work environment.
|
3 |
| ESHS-150 |
Principles of Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety
This course presents an overview of the principles of environmental sustainability, health and safety that allows students to think critically about current environmental sustainability, health and safety issues.
|
3 |
| MATH-161 |
LAS Perspective 7A (mathematical): Applied Calculus
This course is an introduction to the study of differential and integral calculus, including the study of functions and graphs, limits, continuity, the derivative, derivative formulas, applications of derivatives, the definite integral, the fundamental theorem of calculus, basic techniques of integral approximation, exponential and logarithmic functions, basic techniques of integration, an introduction to differential equations, and geometric series. Applications in business, management sciences, and life sciences will be included with an emphasis on manipulative skills.
|
4 |
| PHYS-111 |
LAS Perspective 6 (scientific principles): College Physics I
This is an introductory course in algebra-based physics focusing on mechanics
and waves. Topics include kinematics, planar motion, Newton’s laws,
gravitation; rotational kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum
and impulse; conservation laws; simple harmonic motion; waves; data
presentation/analysis and error propagation. The course is taught using both
traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally
found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings.
|
4 |
| YOPS-10 | RIT 365: RIT Connections |
0 |
LAS Perspective 1 (ethical) |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 2 (artistic) |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 3 (global) |
3 | |
First Year Writing (WI) |
3 | |
Wellness Education* |
0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| BIOL-101 |
General Biology I
This course serves as an introduction to cellular, molecular, and evolutionary biology. Topics will include: a study of the basic principles of modern cellular biology, including cell structure and function; the chemical basis and functions of life, including enzyme systems and gene expression; and the origin of life and evolutionary patterns of organism development on Earth.
|
3 |
| BIOL-103 |
General Biology I Lab
This course provides laboratory work to complement the lecture material of General Biology I. The experiments are designed to illustrate concepts of basic cellular and molecular biology, develop laboratory skills and techniques for microscopy, and improve ability to make, record and interpret observations.
|
1 |
| ESHS-200 |
Environmental Geology
An introduction to geology from an environmental geology perspective, including topics related to sustainability of geologic resources. Basic geology topics include earth materials and internal forces. Environmental topics include erosion, mass wasting, river systems, and environmental sampling. Sustainability of earth resources is explored, including strategic and industrial minerals, and the long-term viability of fossil fuels.
|
3 |
| ESHS-201 |
Environmental Monitoring and Measurement I
This laboratory course provides students with skills used in geologic investigations and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will learn to describe and analyze surficial and shallow subsurface geological features, and to plan, execute, and interpret sampling events.
|
2 |
| ESHS-250 |
Introduction to Hydrology
This course will cover most subdisciplines within the broad field of hydrology. Students will learn the theoretical background, and practical applications of selected aspects of the science including the hydrologic cycle, surface water calculations, vadose zone flow, groundwater hydraulics, groundwater monitoring, water chemistry, and groundwater contaminant transport. The class culminates in an investigation of a mock contaminated site in which the students apply aspects of all of the above mentioned topics. Hydrology has important applications for environmental managers, and these applications will be highlighted in the class.
|
3 |
| ESHS-251 |
Environmental Monitoring and Measurement II
This laboratory course provides students with skills used in hydrologic investigations and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will learn field skills to support surface water investigations, groundwater investigations, and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will also learn to specify sampling any chemical analysis for contaminated sites, and to use common air and water quality field analytical instruments.
|
2 |
| ESHS-290 |
Social Responsibility and Environmental Sustainability (WI)
This course will introduce social responsibility concepts and approaches presented in key documents like the ISO 26000 Social Responsibility Standard and the Universal Bill of Human Rights, and will explore the web of relationships in which an organization or a community exists, with the objective of providing the foundational knowledge necessary to plan a strategy for closing the gap between the activities, products and services of the organization or community and the ecosystem within which it exists.
|
3 |
| ESHS-310 |
Solid and Hazardous Waste Management
An examination of strategies and technologies to move an organization toward environmental sustainability, including resource use reduction, material substitution, process and product modification, and waste minimization; and for handling and managing wastes including treatment, storage, transport, and disposal storing solid and hazardous waste. Associated environmental impacts, regulatory concerns, technical feasibility, and costs are considered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-320 |
Occupational Safety
This course is an overview of the occupational safety management tools and techniques utilized in today's industry. Topics examined include OSHA requirements, record keeping, guarding, electrical safety material handling, welding, fire prevention, excavation, medical surveillance, worker's compensation, inspection techniques, auditing, committees, incentives, and voluntary programs.
|
3 |
| PHYS-112 |
College Physics II
This course is an introduction to algebra-based physics focusing on thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and elementary topics in modern physics. Topics include heat and temperature, laws of thermodynamics, fluids, electric and magnetic forces and fields, DC electrical circuits, electromagnetic induction, opyics, the concept of the photon, and the Bohr model of the atom. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings.
|
4 |
| TCOM-327 |
Environmental, Health and Safety Professional Communication
Communication of environmental, health and safety information and issues is critical for awareness, information, and action. Students develop skill in reporting and conveying environmental and scientific information as well as an understanding of the role of the media and public relations in the environmental communication process. Course participants also learn strategies and formats for communicating safety information, especially in procedures and instructional materials. Writing and speaking skills are sharpened for successful business, media, and crisis communication.
|
3 |
| Third Year | ||
| ENGT-299 |
Career Seminar
This course is an introduction to the cooperative educational program at RIT, the programs in the department, and RIT resources. Topics include engineering technology vs. engineering, review of resources available at RIT, the cooperative education placement process, and the ethical expectations of employers for co-op students and RIT during a job search.
|
0 |
| ESHS-330 |
Industrial Wastewater Management
This course investigates characteristics and sources of industrial wastewaters, related environmental impacts, regulatory implications, and technical considerations of current treatment and disposal methodologies. Students learn to identify appropriate methods, technologies, and sequences for source reduction, treatment and pretreatment, direct discharge, and management of treatment residuals.
|
3 |
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (spring, summer)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| ESHS-511 |
Occupational Health
This course will provide students with the the fundamentals of industrial hygiene and public health. Emphasis will be on the toxicological effects of various chemical, biological, and physical insults on the body, monitoring and personal sampling for these substances, personal protection, and controls against such substances will be covered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-512 |
Occupational Health Lab
Weekly labs and associated reports develop skills and understanding of calibration and use of air sampling equipment and other instrumentation to assess workplace health hazards. Hands-on practical hazardous material response. Students who complete the course will receive OSHA HAZWOPER 40 hour certification.
|
1 |
| STAT-145 |
LAS Perspective 7B (mathematical): Introduction to Statistics I
This course introduces statistical methods of extracting meaning from data, and basic inferential statistics. Topics covered include data and data integrity, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, numeric summary measures, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. The emphasis of the course is on statistical thinking rather than computation. Statistical software is used.
|
3 |
LAS Elective |
3 | |
LAS Immersion 1 |
3 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| BIOL-102 |
General Biology II
This course serves as an introduction to animal and plant anatomy and physiology, in addition to the fundamentals of ecology. Topics will include: animal development; animal body systems; plant development; unique plant systems; Earth's terrestrial and aquatic environments; population and community ecology; animal behavior; and conservation biology.
|
3 |
| BIOL-104 |
General Biology II Lab
This course provides laboratory work to complement the material of General Biology II. The experiments are designed to illustrate concepts of animal and plant anatomy and physiology, develop laboratory skills and techniques for experimenting with live organisms, and improve ability to make, record, and interpret observations.
|
1 |
| ESHS-460 |
EHS Accident Causation and Prevention
Historical as well as modern accident and incident causation models and theories will be covered. Students will learn how to identify and prevent unsafe acts and conditions that can lead to accidents and incidents. The application of management system controls, including operational controls to prevent accidents and incidents, will be reviewed. In addition, students will learn how to investigate accidents and incidents. They will also learn how to develop accident and incident investigation written programs.
|
3 |
| ESHS-480 |
EHS Law
An overview of environmental, health and safety (EHS) related law with an emphasis on legislative law. Topics include a review of the historical and modern sources for EHS law, the emergence of administrative law and the responsibilities of the separate branches of government. Major EHS related legislation will be covered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (summer)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| ESHS-525 |
Air Emissions Management
This course will present an overview of industrial air pollution management, its sources, methods of reduction, control, and management. Students will become familiar with the history of air pollution, the chemistry and effects of pollutants, regulations and standards, and control technologies as well as developing analytical and quantitative skills necessary in air emissions management decision-making.
|
3 |
Free Elective |
3 | |
Professional Electives |
9 | |
LAS Immersion 2, 3 |
6 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (fall)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| ESHS-515 |
Corporate EHS Management
Presents the fundamentals of how companies manage their environmental, health and safety issues. EHS motivations and strategies for corporate ESHS management will be explored. Organizational considerations for managing corporate EHS programs will be identified. Total quality management and its applications to corporate EHS problem solving will be introduced. The basic elements of EHS management systems will be reviewed. EHS training and corporate EHS reporting will also be examined.
|
3 |
| ESHS-590 |
Capstone Project
This is a faculty-designed capstone team project course for 5th year ESHS students. It presents students with one or more identified EHS need(s) and challenges them to work together to plan, schedule, and carry out a project to design and develop socially responsible and environmentally sustainable solutions. The project may vary from offering to offering reflecting current trends and developments.
|
3 |
Professional Elective |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 4 (social) |
3 | |
Free Elective |
3 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 126 |
|
Please see General Education Curriculum–Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) for more information.
(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.
* Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.
Options
Environmental sustainability
| Complete 9 credits from the following courses: | |
| ESHS-350 |
Greenhouse Gas Management
Climate change has been recognized as the fundamental problem of the 21st century, and the anthropogenic cause of climate change has been established. This course will introduce the scientific basis of the greenhouse effect, the global carbon cycle and climate change and will identify and explore methods used to determine an organization’s GHG output. Mechanisms used by industry, governmental organizations and commercial enterprises to remain competitive as the world transitions to a low carbon economy will be explored. Students will gain GHG inventorying skills presented in ISO 14064 and the WRI Greenhouse Gas Protocol, and will gain fundamental understanding of the causes, effects, and possible mitigation strategies for climate change.
|
| ESHS-360 |
Sustainable World Water Supply
The World Health Organization estimates that one in eight people do not have access to a safe drinking water supply. The U.S. State Department has stated that armed conflict over water rights is possible on many of the world’s river systems including the Nile, Tigris/Euphrates, Brahmaputra-Jamuna, and Mekong. What is the cause of these problems and how will changes to the hydrologic cycle and world water supply brought about by climate change affect them? Students will learn about the hydrologic cycle, the general characteristics of surface water and groundwater, and global patterns of water use. Students will learn about the health, economic, and social consequences of drought and flooding, and the effect climate change is having on water supply in arid countries. Laws and government regulation of water withdrawal and use will be covered, as will techniques to extend the available water supply. Students will consider the positive and negative consequences of increasing the sustainability of the water supply through efficiency, conservation, inter-basin transfer, water use export, grey and black water reuse, urban runoff capture, and the creation of fresh water through desalination.
|
| ESHS-544 |
Remedial Investigation & Corrective Action
Describes the sequence of events required to investigate, conduct feasibility studies, and identify appropriate corrective actions at hazardous waste sites. Explains the process flow logistics, concepts, and rationale behind each action. Explores current issues of how clean is clean? Students learn to develop conceptual site characterization plans, effective RI/CA proposals, review and evaluate work plans, procedures and operations plans, and contingency plans
|
| ESHS-565 |
Sustainable Product Stewardship
This course examines the principles of sustainable product stewardship, including the ethical, legal, and economic issues that product manufacturers face as well as the relationship between products and sustainability. Students will learn and apply some environmental sustainability, health and safety analysis techniques used to identify and manage product environmental sustainability aspects as well as health and safety hazards. Students will use case studies to examine the concept of product stewardship management through product life cycle thinking and extended producer responsibility. (Students who have completed ESHS-665 Product Stewardship may not receive credit for this course.)
|
Occupational health and safety
| Complete 9 credits from the following courses: | |
| ESHS-225 |
Construction Safety
This course is designed to cover construction health and safety hazards and will study OSHA regulations in depth. Students get to handle and investigate construction safety issues, the OSHA standards addressing trench excavation, scaffolding, temporary electric circuits, fall protection, HAZCOM, underground construction are studied.
|
| ESHS-501 |
Fire Protection
Introduces fundamental concepts in protection of industrial workers and property from fire and explosion. Fire chemistry, control of ignition sources in industry, and properties of combustible materials are discussed. Fire detection and extinguishment are covered along with building construction for fire prevention, life safety, fire codes, and related topics.
|
| ESHS-530 |
Mechanical and Electrical Safeguarding
Discussion of machine safety with emphasis on hazard analysis, risk estimation, safeguarding techniques, and electrical safety. Particular attention will be paid to applicable OSHA, ANSI, NFPA, and EN standards as they relate to wood, metal, films, and automation. Elements of the course will change regularly to reflect emerging issues in industry.
|
| ESHS-565 |
Sustainable Product Stewardship
This course examines the principles of sustainable product stewardship, including the ethical, legal, and economic issues that product manufacturers face as well as the relationship between products and sustainability. Students will learn and apply some environmental sustainability, health and safety analysis techniques used to identify and manage product environmental sustainability aspects as well as health and safety hazards. Students will use case studies to examine the concept of product stewardship management through product life cycle thinking and extended producer responsibility. (Students who have completed ESHS-665 Product Stewardship may not receive credit for this course.)
|
Surveying and geospatial analysis
| Complete 10 credits from the following courses: | |
| CVET-160 |
Surveying
Introduction to fundamentals of surveying. Topics include note taking; differential leveling; vertical and horizontal measurement; traversing; topographic mapping; horizontal, vertical, compound and reverse curves; and earthwork.
|
| CVET-161 |
Surveying Laboratory
Students apply the fundamentals of surveying to field exercises using modern surveying equipment. Field exercises include differential leveling, cross sections, traversing, topographic mapping, horizontal curve layout, vertical curve design, and earthwork estimation.
|
| CVET-423 |
GIS for CETEMS
This course examines the fundamentals of geographic information systems and their application in the fields of civil engineering and environmental management. It emphasizes the application of GIS technology to problems such as, but not limited to, water resource management, asset management, environmental impact assessments, urban planning, and transportation. This course is restricted to 4th year CETEMS student or department permission.
|
| ISTE-382 |
Introduction to Geospatial Technologies
This course provides a survey of underlying concepts and technologies used to represent and understand the earth, collectively referred to as Geospatial Technologies (GTs). Students will gain hands-on experience with GTs, including Global Positioning Systems (GPSs), Geographic Information Systems (GISs), remote sensing, Virtual Globes, and Web mapping mashups. Students also will develop basic spatial thinking, reasoning, problem solving and literacy skills.
|
Accelerated dual degree options
Accelerated dual degree options are for undergraduate students with outstanding academic records. Upon acceptance, well-qualified undergraduate students can begin graduate study before completing their BS degree, shortening the time it takes to earn both degrees. Students should consult an academic adviser for more information.
Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety, BS degree/Environmental Health and Safety Management, MS degree (project option), typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| CHMG-141 |
LAS Perspective 5 (natural science inquiry): General & Analytical Chemistry I
This is a general chemistry course for students in the life and physical sciences. College chemistry is presented as a science based on empirical evidence that is placed into the context of conceptual, visual, and mathematical models. Students will learn the concepts, symbolism, and fundamental tools of chemistry necessary to carry on a discourse in the language of chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the transformation of these bonds through chemical reactions. The fundamentals of organic chemistry are introduced throughout the course to emphasize the connection between chemistry and the other sciences.
|
3 |
| CHMG-142 |
General & Analytical Chemistry II
The course covers the thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical reactions. The relationship between energy and entropy change as the driving force of chemical processes is emphasized through the study of aqueous solutions. Specifically, the course takes a quantitative look at: 1) solubility equilibrium, 2) acid-base equilibrium, 3) oxidation-reduction reactions and 4) chemical kinetics.
|
3 |
| CHMG-145 |
LAS Perspective 5 (natural science inquiry): General & Analytical Chemistry I Lab
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-141 lecture material. The course emphasizes laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. Topics include: gravimetric, volumetric, thermal, titration and spectrophotometric analyses, and the use of these techniques to analyze chemical reactions.
|
1 |
| CHMG-146 |
General & Analytical Chemistry II Lab
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-142 lecture material. The course emphasizes the use of experiments as a tool for chemical analysis and the reporting of results in formal lab reports. Topics include the quantitative analysis of a multicomponent mixture using complexation and double endpoint titration, pH measurement, buffers and pH indicators, the kinetic study of a redox reaction, and the electrochemical analysis of oxidation reduction reactions.
|
1 |
| ESHS-100 |
Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety Seminar
This course will present the key concepts of environmental sustainability, health and safety through experiential learning and the perspective of professional practitioners. Through a series of field trips, presentations, and discussions, students will learn how EHS professionals function in the work environment.
|
3 |
| ESHS-150 |
Principles of Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety
This course presents an overview of the principles of environmental sustainability, health and safety that allows students to think critically about current environmental sustainability, health and safety issues.
|
3 |
| MATH-161 |
LAS Perspective 7A (mathematical): Applied Calculus
This course is an introduction to the study of differential and integral calculus, including the study of functions and graphs, limits, continuity, the derivative, derivative formulas, applications of derivatives, the definite integral, the fundamental theorem of calculus, basic techniques of integral approximation, exponential and logarithmic functions, basic techniques of integration, an introduction to differential equations, and geometric series. Applications in business, management sciences, and life sciences will be included with an emphasis on manipulative skills.
|
4 |
| PHYS-111 |
LAS Perspective 6 (scientific principles): College Physics I
This is an introductory course in algebra-based physics focusing on mechanics
and waves. Topics include kinematics, planar motion, Newton’s laws,
gravitation; rotational kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum
and impulse; conservation laws; simple harmonic motion; waves; data
presentation/analysis and error propagation. The course is taught using both
traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally
found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings.
|
4 |
| YOPS-10 | RIT 365: RIT Connections |
0 |
First Year Writing (WI) |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 1 (ethical) |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 2 (artistic) |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 3 (global) |
3 | |
Wellness Education* |
0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| BIOL-101 |
General Biology I
This course serves as an introduction to cellular, molecular, and evolutionary biology. Topics will include: a study of the basic principles of modern cellular biology, including cell structure and function; the chemical basis and functions of life, including enzyme systems and gene expression; and the origin of life and evolutionary patterns of organism development on Earth.
|
3 |
| BIOL-103 |
General Biology I Lab
This course provides laboratory work to complement the lecture material of General Biology I. The experiments are designed to illustrate concepts of basic cellular and molecular biology, develop laboratory skills and techniques for microscopy, and improve ability to make, record and interpret observations.
|
1 |
| ENGT-299 |
Career Seminar
This course is an introduction to the cooperative educational program at RIT, the programs in the department, and RIT resources. Topics include engineering technology vs. engineering, review of resources available at RIT, the cooperative education placement process, and the ethical expectations of employers for co-op students and RIT during a job search.
|
0 |
| ESHS-200 |
Environmental Geology
An introduction to geology from an environmental geology perspective, including topics related to sustainability of geologic resources. Basic geology topics include earth materials and internal forces. Environmental topics include erosion, mass wasting, river systems, and environmental sampling. Sustainability of earth resources is explored, including strategic and industrial minerals, and the long-term viability of fossil fuels.
|
3 |
| ESHS-201 |
Environmental Monitoring and Measurement I
This laboratory course provides students with skills used in geologic investigations and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will learn to describe and analyze surficial and shallow subsurface geological features, and to plan, execute, and interpret sampling events.
|
2 |
| ESHS-251 |
Environmental Monitoring and Measurement II
This laboratory course provides students with skills used in hydrologic investigations and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will learn field skills to support surface water investigations, groundwater investigations, and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will also learn to specify sampling any chemical analysis for contaminated sites, and to use common air and water quality field analytical instruments.
|
2 |
| ESHS-250 |
Introduction to Hydrology
This course will cover most subdisciplines within the broad field of hydrology. Students will learn the theoretical background, and practical applications of selected aspects of the science including the hydrologic cycle, surface water calculations, vadose zone flow, groundwater hydraulics, groundwater monitoring, water chemistry, and groundwater contaminant transport. The class culminates in an investigation of a mock contaminated site in which the students apply aspects of all of the above mentioned topics. Hydrology has important applications for environmental managers, and these applications will be highlighted in the class.
|
3 |
| ESHS-290 |
Social Responsibility and Environmental Sustainability (WI)
This course will introduce social responsibility concepts and approaches presented in key documents like the ISO 26000 Social Responsibility Standard and the Universal Bill of Human Rights, and will explore the web of relationships in which an organization or a community exists, with the objective of providing the foundational knowledge necessary to plan a strategy for closing the gap between the activities, products and services of the organization or community and the ecosystem within which it exists.
|
3 |
| ESHS-310 |
Solid and Hazardous Waste Management
An examination of strategies and technologies to move an organization toward environmental sustainability, including resource use reduction, material substitution, process and product modification, and waste minimization; and for handling and managing wastes including treatment, storage, transport, and disposal storing solid and hazardous waste. Associated environmental impacts, regulatory concerns, technical feasibility, and costs are considered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-320 |
Occupational Safety
This course is an overview of the occupational safety management tools and techniques utilized in today's industry. Topics examined include OSHA requirements, record keeping, guarding, electrical safety material handling, welding, fire prevention, excavation, medical surveillance, worker's compensation, inspection techniques, auditing, committees, incentives, and voluntary programs.
|
3 |
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (summer)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| PHYS-112 |
College Physics II
This course is an introduction to algebra-based physics focusing on thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and elementary topics in modern physics. Topics include heat and temperature, laws of thermodynamics, fluids, electric and magnetic forces and fields, DC electrical circuits, electromagnetic induction, opyics, the concept of the photon, and the Bohr model of the atom. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings.
|
4 |
| TCOM-327 |
Environmental, Health and Safety Professional Communication
Communication of environmental, health and safety information and issues is critical for awareness, information, and action. Students develop skill in reporting and conveying environmental and scientific information as well as an understanding of the role of the media and public relations in the environmental communication process. Course participants also learn strategies and formats for communicating safety information, especially in procedures and instructional materials. Writing and speaking skills are sharpened for successful business, media, and crisis communication.
|
3 |
| Third Year | ||
| BIOL-102 |
General Biology II
This course serves as an introduction to animal and plant anatomy and physiology, in addition to the fundamentals of ecology. Topics will include: animal development; animal body systems; plant development; unique plant systems; Earth's terrestrial and aquatic environments; population and community ecology; animal behavior; and conservation biology.
|
3 |
| BIOL-104 |
General Biology II Lab
This course provides laboratory work to complement the material of General Biology II. The experiments are designed to illustrate concepts of animal and plant anatomy and physiology, develop laboratory skills and techniques for experimenting with live organisms, and improve ability to make, record, and interpret observations.
|
1 |
| ESHS-330 |
Industrial Wastewater Management
This course investigates characteristics and sources of industrial wastewaters, related environmental impacts, regulatory implications, and technical considerations of current treatment and disposal methodologies. Students learn to identify appropriate methods, technologies, and sequences for source reduction, treatment and pretreatment, direct discharge, and management of treatment residuals.
|
3 |
| ESHS-480 |
EHS Law
An overview of environmental, health and safety (EHS) related law with an emphasis on legislative law. Topics include a review of the historical and modern sources for EHS law, the emergence of administrative law and the responsibilities of the separate branches of government. Major EHS related legislation will be covered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (summer)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| ESHS-511 |
Occupational Health
This course will provide students with the the fundamentals of industrial hygiene and public health. Emphasis will be on the toxicological effects of various chemical, biological, and physical insults on the body, monitoring and personal sampling for these substances, personal protection, and controls against such substances will be covered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-512 |
Occupational Health Lab
Weekly labs and associated reports develop skills and understanding of calibration and use of air sampling equipment and other instrumentation to assess workplace health hazards. Hands-on practical hazardous material response. Students who complete the course will receive OSHA HAZWOPER 40 hour certification.
|
1 |
| ESHS-525 |
Air Emissions Management
This course will present an overview of industrial air pollution management, its sources, methods of reduction, control, and management. Students will become familiar with the history of air pollution, the chemistry and effects of pollutants, regulations and standards, and control technologies as well as developing analytical and quantitative skills necessary in air emissions management decision-making.
|
3 |
| STAT-145 |
LAS Perspective 7B (mathematical): Introduction to Statistics I
This course introduces statistical methods of extracting meaning from data, and basic inferential statistics. Topics covered include data and data integrity, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, numeric summary measures, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. The emphasis of the course is on statistical thinking rather than computation. Statistical software is used.
|
3 |
LAS Elective |
3 | |
Free Elective |
3 | |
LAS Immersion 1, 2 |
6 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| ESHS-460 |
EHS Accident Causation and Prevention
Historical as well as modern accident and incident causation models and theories will be covered. Students will learn how to identify and prevent unsafe acts and conditions that can lead to accidents and incidents. The application of management system controls, including operational controls to prevent accidents and incidents, will be reviewed. In addition, students will learn how to investigate accidents and incidents. They will also learn how to develop accident and incident investigation written programs.
|
3 |
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (summer)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| ESHS-515 |
Corporate EHS Management
Presents the fundamentals of how companies manage their environmental, health and safety issues. EHS motivations and strategies for corporate ESHS management will be explored. Organizational considerations for managing corporate EHS programs will be identified. Total quality management and its applications to corporate EHS problem solving will be introduced. The basic elements of EHS management systems will be reviewed. EHS training and corporate EHS reporting will also be examined.
|
3 |
| ESHS-720 |
Environmental, Health and Safety Management
This is the initial course in the curriculum core of RIT's MS degree program in Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Management. It defines and profiles EHS management within the organization; explores EHS management history, motivations, and strategies; introduces current and developing systems for managing an organization's EHS aspects; and investigates the elements and implications of developing an organizational EHS vision and policy statement. The course's unique delivery style combines elements of distance-learning and an onsite executive-leader format.
|
3 |
| GRCS-701 |
Research Methods
This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments.
|
3 |
Professional Electives |
9 | |
LAS Immersion 3 |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 4 (social) |
3 | |
Free Elective |
3 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| ESHS-740 |
EHS Management System Design
This course examines the design and development of environmental, health and safety management systems in order to implement an organization's policies and offers strategies for measurement of results in order to assess performance and ensure continual improvement. Significant team project work as well as individual work is required.
|
3 |
| ESHS-755 |
Corporate Social Responsibility
This course will introduce social responsibility concepts and approaches presented in key documents like the ISO 26000 Social Responsibility Standard, and will explore strategies for assisting an organization to identify and implement socially responsible initiatives appropriate to the nature and scope of its activities, products, and services.
|
3 |
| ESHS-760 |
Integrating EHS Management
This course examines strategies for integrating EHS systems and processes. Using case studies, the course explores interrelationships between EHS and total quality management, business value, reporting, and approaches for sustainable business development. Students will be prepared to select appropriate quality tools to improve EHS processes; identify opportunities, strategies, and tools for integrating EHS into business management; and identify best practices in EHS/business integration.
|
3 |
| ESHS-780 |
EHS Internal Auditing
This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of EHS internal auditing, including EHS internal audit program design and management principles, management system performance evaluation and corrective action techniques, and system improvements. Exercises provide opportunities to apply knowledge.
|
3 |
| ESHS-797 |
Graduate Project
This course provides an opportunity for students to demonstrate their capabilities developed through their course of study to design, develop, and/or evaluate an EHS management related project culminating in a written report or manuscript and presentation.
|
3 |
Professional Electives (Graduate) |
9 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 150 |
|
Please see General Education Curriculum–Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) for more information.
(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.
* Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.
Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety, BS degree/Environmental Health and Safety Management, MS degree (thesis option), typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| CHMG-141 |
LAS Perspective 5 (natural science inquiry): General & Analytical Chemistry I
This is a general chemistry course for students in the life and physical sciences. College chemistry is presented as a science based on empirical evidence that is placed into the context of conceptual, visual, and mathematical models. Students will learn the concepts, symbolism, and fundamental tools of chemistry necessary to carry on a discourse in the language of chemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between atomic structure, chemical bonds, and the transformation of these bonds through chemical reactions. The fundamentals of organic chemistry are introduced throughout the course to emphasize the connection between chemistry and the other sciences.
|
3 |
| CHMG-142 |
General & Analytical Chemistry II
The course covers the thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical reactions. The relationship between energy and entropy change as the driving force of chemical processes is emphasized through the study of aqueous solutions. Specifically, the course takes a quantitative look at: 1) solubility equilibrium, 2) acid-base equilibrium, 3) oxidation-reduction reactions and 4) chemical kinetics.
|
3 |
| CHMG-145 |
LAS Perspective 5 (natural science inquiry): General & Analytical Chemistry I Lab
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-141 lecture material. The course emphasizes laboratory techniques and data analysis skills. Topics include: gravimetric, volumetric, thermal, titration and spectrophotometric analyses, and the use of these techniques to analyze chemical reactions.
|
1 |
| CHMG-146 |
General & Analytical Chemistry II Lab
The course combines hands-on laboratory exercises with workshop-style problem sessions to complement the CHMG-142 lecture material. The course emphasizes the use of experiments as a tool for chemical analysis and the reporting of results in formal lab reports. Topics include the quantitative analysis of a multicomponent mixture using complexation and double endpoint titration, pH measurement, buffers and pH indicators, the kinetic study of a redox reaction, and the electrochemical analysis of oxidation reduction reactions.
|
1 |
| ESHS-100 |
Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety Seminar
This course will present the key concepts of environmental sustainability, health and safety through experiential learning and the perspective of professional practitioners. Through a series of field trips, presentations, and discussions, students will learn how EHS professionals function in the work environment.
|
3 |
| ESHS-150 |
Principles of Environmental Sustainability, Health and Safety
This course presents an overview of the principles of environmental sustainability, health and safety that allows students to think critically about current environmental sustainability, health and safety issues.
|
3 |
| MATH-161 |
LAS Perspective 7A (mathematical): Applied Calculus
This course is an introduction to the study of differential and integral calculus, including the study of functions and graphs, limits, continuity, the derivative, derivative formulas, applications of derivatives, the definite integral, the fundamental theorem of calculus, basic techniques of integral approximation, exponential and logarithmic functions, basic techniques of integration, an introduction to differential equations, and geometric series. Applications in business, management sciences, and life sciences will be included with an emphasis on manipulative skills.
|
4 |
| PHYS-111 |
LAS Perspective 6 (scientific principles): College Physics I
This is an introductory course in algebra-based physics focusing on mechanics
and waves. Topics include kinematics, planar motion, Newton’s laws,
gravitation; rotational kinematics and dynamics; work and energy; momentum
and impulse; conservation laws; simple harmonic motion; waves; data
presentation/analysis and error propagation. The course is taught using both
traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally
found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings.
|
4 |
| YOPS-10 | RIT 365: RIT Connections |
0 |
First Year Writing (WI) |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 1 (ethical) |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 2 (artistic) |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 3 (global) |
3 | |
Wellness Education* |
0 | |
| Second Year | ||
| BIOL-101 |
General Biology I
This course serves as an introduction to cellular, molecular, and evolutionary biology. Topics will include: a study of the basic principles of modern cellular biology, including cell structure and function; the chemical basis and functions of life, including enzyme systems and gene expression; and the origin of life and evolutionary patterns of organism development on Earth.
|
3 |
| BIOL-103 |
General Biology I Lab
This course provides laboratory work to complement the lecture material of General Biology I. The experiments are designed to illustrate concepts of basic cellular and molecular biology, develop laboratory skills and techniques for microscopy, and improve ability to make, record and interpret observations.
|
1 |
| ENGT-299 |
Career Seminar
This course is an introduction to the cooperative educational program at RIT, the programs in the department, and RIT resources. Topics include engineering technology vs. engineering, review of resources available at RIT, the cooperative education placement process, and the ethical expectations of employers for co-op students and RIT during a job search.
|
0 |
| ESHS-200 |
Environmental Geology
An introduction to geology from an environmental geology perspective, including topics related to sustainability of geologic resources. Basic geology topics include earth materials and internal forces. Environmental topics include erosion, mass wasting, river systems, and environmental sampling. Sustainability of earth resources is explored, including strategic and industrial minerals, and the long-term viability of fossil fuels.
|
3 |
| ESHS-201 |
Environmental Monitoring and Measurement I
This laboratory course provides students with skills used in geologic investigations and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will learn to describe and analyze surficial and shallow subsurface geological features, and to plan, execute, and interpret sampling events.
|
2 |
| ESHS-250 |
Introduction to Hydrology
This course will cover most subdisciplines within the broad field of hydrology. Students will learn the theoretical background, and practical applications of selected aspects of the science including the hydrologic cycle, surface water calculations, vadose zone flow, groundwater hydraulics, groundwater monitoring, water chemistry, and groundwater contaminant transport. The class culminates in an investigation of a mock contaminated site in which the students apply aspects of all of the above mentioned topics. Hydrology has important applications for environmental managers, and these applications will be highlighted in the class.
|
3 |
| ESHS-251 |
Environmental Monitoring and Measurement II
This laboratory course provides students with skills used in hydrologic investigations and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will learn field skills to support surface water investigations, groundwater investigations, and investigations of contaminated sites. Students will also learn to specify sampling any chemical analysis for contaminated sites, and to use common air and water quality field analytical instruments.
|
2 |
| ESHS-290 |
Social Responsibility and Environmental Sustainability (WI)
This course will introduce social responsibility concepts and approaches presented in key documents like the ISO 26000 Social Responsibility Standard and the Universal Bill of Human Rights, and will explore the web of relationships in which an organization or a community exists, with the objective of providing the foundational knowledge necessary to plan a strategy for closing the gap between the activities, products and services of the organization or community and the ecosystem within which it exists.
|
3 |
| ESHS-310 |
Solid and Hazardous Waste Management
An examination of strategies and technologies to move an organization toward environmental sustainability, including resource use reduction, material substitution, process and product modification, and waste minimization; and for handling and managing wastes including treatment, storage, transport, and disposal storing solid and hazardous waste. Associated environmental impacts, regulatory concerns, technical feasibility, and costs are considered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-320 |
Occupational Safety
This course is an overview of the occupational safety management tools and techniques utilized in today's industry. Topics examined include OSHA requirements, record keeping, guarding, electrical safety material handling, welding, fire prevention, excavation, medical surveillance, worker's compensation, inspection techniques, auditing, committees, incentives, and voluntary programs.
|
3 |
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (summer)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| PHYS-112 |
College Physics II
This course is an introduction to algebra-based physics focusing on thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and elementary topics in modern physics. Topics include heat and temperature, laws of thermodynamics, fluids, electric and magnetic forces and fields, DC electrical circuits, electromagnetic induction, opyics, the concept of the photon, and the Bohr model of the atom. The course is taught using both traditional lectures and a workshop format that integrates material traditionally found in separate lecture, recitation, and laboratory settings.
|
4 |
| TCOM-327 |
Environmental, Health and Safety Professional Communication
Communication of environmental, health and safety information and issues is critical for awareness, information, and action. Students develop skill in reporting and conveying environmental and scientific information as well as an understanding of the role of the media and public relations in the environmental communication process. Course participants also learn strategies and formats for communicating safety information, especially in procedures and instructional materials. Writing and speaking skills are sharpened for successful business, media, and crisis communication.
|
3 |
| Third Year | ||
| BIOL-102 |
General Biology II
This course serves as an introduction to animal and plant anatomy and physiology, in addition to the fundamentals of ecology. Topics will include: animal development; animal body systems; plant development; unique plant systems; Earth's terrestrial and aquatic environments; population and community ecology; animal behavior; and conservation biology.
|
3 |
| BIOL-104 |
General Biology II Lab
This course provides laboratory work to complement the material of General Biology II. The experiments are designed to illustrate concepts of animal and plant anatomy and physiology, develop laboratory skills and techniques for experimenting with live organisms, and improve ability to make, record, and interpret observations.
|
1 |
| ESHS-330 |
Industrial Wastewater Management
This course investigates characteristics and sources of industrial wastewaters, related environmental impacts, regulatory implications, and technical considerations of current treatment and disposal methodologies. Students learn to identify appropriate methods, technologies, and sequences for source reduction, treatment and pretreatment, direct discharge, and management of treatment residuals.
|
3 |
| ESHS-480 |
EHS Law
An overview of environmental, health and safety (EHS) related law with an emphasis on legislative law. Topics include a review of the historical and modern sources for EHS law, the emergence of administrative law and the responsibilities of the separate branches of government. Major EHS related legislation will be covered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (summer)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| ESHS-511 |
Occupational Health
This course will provide students with the the fundamentals of industrial hygiene and public health. Emphasis will be on the toxicological effects of various chemical, biological, and physical insults on the body, monitoring and personal sampling for these substances, personal protection, and controls against such substances will be covered.
|
3 |
| ESHS-512 |
Occupational Health Lab
Weekly labs and associated reports develop skills and understanding of calibration and use of air sampling equipment and other instrumentation to assess workplace health hazards. Hands-on practical hazardous material response. Students who complete the course will receive OSHA HAZWOPER 40 hour certification.
|
1 |
| ESHS-525 |
Air Emissions Management
This course will present an overview of industrial air pollution management, its sources, methods of reduction, control, and management. Students will become familiar with the history of air pollution, the chemistry and effects of pollutants, regulations and standards, and control technologies as well as developing analytical and quantitative skills necessary in air emissions management decision-making.
|
3 |
| STAT-145 |
LAS Perspective 7B (mathematical): Introduction to Statistics I
This course introduces statistical methods of extracting meaning from data, and basic inferential statistics. Topics covered include data and data integrity, exploratory data analysis, data visualization, numeric summary measures, the normal distribution, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. The emphasis of the course is on statistical thinking rather than computation. Statistical software is used.
|
3 |
LAS Immersion 1, 3 |
6 | |
LAS Elective |
3 | |
Free Elective |
3 | |
| Fourth Year | ||
| ESHS-460 |
EHS Accident Causation and Prevention
Historical as well as modern accident and incident causation models and theories will be covered. Students will learn how to identify and prevent unsafe acts and conditions that can lead to accidents and incidents. The application of management system controls, including operational controls to prevent accidents and incidents, will be reviewed. In addition, students will learn how to investigate accidents and incidents. They will also learn how to develop accident and incident investigation written programs.
|
3 |
| ESHS-499 |
ESHS Co-op (summer)
ESHS Co-op. Department permission is required.
|
0 |
| ESHS-515 |
Corporate EHS Management
Presents the fundamentals of how companies manage their environmental, health and safety issues. EHS motivations and strategies for corporate ESHS management will be explored. Organizational considerations for managing corporate EHS programs will be identified. Total quality management and its applications to corporate EHS problem solving will be introduced. The basic elements of EHS management systems will be reviewed. EHS training and corporate EHS reporting will also be examined.
|
3 |
| ESHS-720 |
Environmental, Health and Safety Management
This is the initial course in the curriculum core of RIT's MS degree program in Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Management. It defines and profiles EHS management within the organization; explores EHS management history, motivations, and strategies; introduces current and developing systems for managing an organization's EHS aspects; and investigates the elements and implications of developing an organizational EHS vision and policy statement. The course's unique delivery style combines elements of distance-learning and an onsite executive-leader format.
|
3 |
| GRCS-701 |
Research Methods
This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments.
|
3 |
LAS Immersion 2 |
3 | |
LAS Perspective 4 (social) |
3 | |
Free Elective |
3 | |
Professional Electives |
9 | |
| Fifth Year | ||
| ESHS-740 |
EHS Management System Design
This course examines the design and development of environmental, health and safety management systems in order to implement an organization's policies and offers strategies for measurement of results in order to assess performance and ensure continual improvement. Significant team project work as well as individual work is required.
|
3 |
| ESHS-755 |
Corporate Social Responsibility
This course will introduce social responsibility concepts and approaches presented in key documents like the ISO 26000 Social Responsibility Standard, and will explore strategies for assisting an organization to identify and implement socially responsible initiatives appropriate to the nature and scope of its activities, products, and services.
|
3 |
| ESHS-760 |
Integrating EHS Management
This course examines strategies for integrating EHS systems and processes. Using case studies, the course explores interrelationships between EHS and total quality management, business value, reporting, and approaches for sustainable business development. Students will be prepared to select appropriate quality tools to improve EHS processes; identify opportunities, strategies, and tools for integrating EHS into business management; and identify best practices in EHS/business integration.
|
3 |
| ESHS-780 |
EHS Internal Auditing
This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of EHS internal auditing, including EHS internal audit program design and management principles, management system performance evaluation and corrective action techniques, and system improvements. Exercises provide opportunities to apply knowledge.
|
3 |
| ESHS-790 |
Thesis
The graduate thesis is a formal research document that empirically relates theory with practice. A formal written thesis and oral defense are required.
|
3 |
| GRCS-702 |
Principles of Research Communications
Conducting research requires language skills to express the research concept, explain methodology and summarize the results. This course will focus on written communication skills including critical thinking, scholarly writing skills and the ability to synthesize research results to draw conclusions. Key to this course is the establishment of a defensible argument through which the student explains, convinces and establishes boundaries for the research subject. The focus of this course is to have students learn the mechanics of research writing and at the conclusion of the course to have generated elements of their final research thesis or capstone which can be used as a basis for further work with their home department or thesis/capstone faculty advisor.
|
3 |
Professional Electives (Graduate) |
6 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 150 |
|
Please see General Education Curriculum–Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS) for more information.
(WI) Refers to a writing intensive course within the major.
* Please see Wellness Education Requirement for more information. Students completing bachelor's degrees are required to complete two different Wellness courses.
Admission Requirements
Freshman Admission
For all bachelor’s degree programs, a strong performance in a college preparatory program is expected. Generally, this includes 4 years of English, 3-4 years of mathematics, 2-3 years of science, and 3 years of social studies and/or history.
Specific math and science requirements and other recommendations
- 3 years of math required; pre-calculus recommended
- Chemistry or physics required; biology recommended
- Technology electives desirable
Transfer Admission
Transfer course recommendations without associate degree
Math through Calculus I, micro and macroeconomics, introductory courses in biology, chemistry, and physics
Appropriate associate degree programs for transfer
Biology, chemistry, or environmental sciences; business or public administration; liberal arts with math/science
Learn about admissions and financial aid