What are the EHS Field Education Background Requirements?

[Sarah Webster]

Hi

I was wondering what type of education background are employers looking for, to work in the field of Environmental Health and Safety?

Typically, the requirements I see are the following:

- a Bachelor degree in a related OHS field such as Occupational Health and Safety, Industrial Hygiene, Ergonomics, Kinesiology, etc.

- a Diploma or Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

Are people finding that employers want a Masters degree? Do they prefer a OHS degree over a diploma or certificate? (ie is it worth to upgrade an OHS certificate to a undergrad degree such as the Ryerson University 2-year option)

Are people pursuing a Certificate in Environmental Practice? to obtain the environmental education

Thank you in advance for your opinions.

Cheers
Sarah

[DRodrigues]

Hi Sarah,

As a recent graduate myself, I am finding that most employers bank more on the CRSP certification and experience in the field rather than certification level from a college/university.

To add though, to receive your CRSP starting this year you must meet certain education requirements, I think it's a diploma, which is usually a two year program. Although I believe there are exceptions to that as well, my program was 1 year full time in class and I was told the BCRSP was accepting it.

Hope this helps! :)

[Owen]

Here is the main site to lookup the CRSP info. http://www.bcrsp.ca/designation.html

As for requirements when applying for a job, these will vary depending on the company. Most that I have seen lately are looking more at experience in the type of work being offered with at least a college certificate. For the most part, the CRSP is still a nice to have but not a requirement until you are looking more at the manager's role in H&S.