Associate in Science, Liberal Studies

Bedford and Lowell Campus - Day and Evening

Program Description:

The Environmental Health Associate in Science, Liberal Studies degree program prepares graduates to transfer to bachelor-degree programs in environmental health or public health. Environmental health is a branch of public health that studies the effects of the environment on human health, the effects of human activities on the environment, and the ways to identify, assess and address adverse health effects, and promote public health and sustainable development.

Environmental Health professionals ensure safe food, safe drinking water, air quality, adequate sanitation, emergency response, and address communicable disease outbreaks and chronic disease. Experts estimate that a substantial portion of preventable illnesses – such as communicable diseases, asthma, cancer, and learning and behavioral disabilities – can be linked to environmental factors. It is clear that a healthy environment is critical to human health. This program qualifies for MassTransfer, which guarantees credit transfer to Massachusetts state universities and the University of Massachusetts.

Career and Transfer Outlook:

This program is designed for students who plan to transfer to environmental health or public health programs at four-year institutions. Job opportunities include positions at local, state and federal environmental or public-health agencies, private industry and not-for-profits. Individuals may hold positions as researchers, analysts, inspectors or safety officers.

Helpful Hints:

Students should begin their Middlesex experience by taking the foundation-level courses (English and mathematics) prior to, or along with, their science courses. Selecting a transfer institution early on, is also recommended.

Program Outcomes:

Graduates in the Environmental Health program will achieve the learning outcomes of the Liberal Studies . Additionally, graduates are prepared to:

• Convey scientific information through written oral, and numerical or visual communication;
• Demonstrate investigative skills that underlie the scientific method;
• Discuss the basic principles of environmental systems;
• Understand the effect of human activity on the environment;
• Evaluate and discuss how environmental problems impact health and societal issues.