Environmental Health and Safety

The MSc in Environmental Health and Safety at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to address complex environmental health and safety challenges in diverse industrial and urban settings. This program integrates principles of environmental sciences, public health, occupational safety, and risk management to prepare graduates for leadership roles in ensuring sustainable and safe working and living environments. Students will engage with a multidisciplinary curriculum that covers topics such as environmental monitoring, pollution control, occupational health regulations, hazardous materials management, and emergency response planning. Emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical application, the program offers opportunities for hands-on training through laboratory work, field visits, and industry projects, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to evaluate environmental risks and implement effective safety solutions. The program is suitable for professionals seeking to advance their careers in environmental consultancy, regulatory agencies, industrial safety management, or public health organizations. With expert faculty members who are active researchers and industry practitioners, students will gain insights into current best practices and emerging trends. The program also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to sustainability and ethical standards in environmental health practices. Through a combination of coursework, research projects, and internships, students develop a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in managing environmental health and safety issues globally and locally. Graduates will be equipped to contribute effectively to policy development, compliance, and innovation in environmental and occupational safety domains, making a meaningful impact on public health and environmental sustainability. The MSc in Environmental Health and Safety at HKUST exemplifies the university’s dedication to excellence in education and its mission to produce globally competent professionals capable of addressing the pressing environmental challenges of our time.

Required courses

• Environmental Health and Safety
• Marine Ecotoxicology
• Environmental Diseases and Microbiology
• Food Safety Contro
• Case Studies in Environmental Risk Assessment
• Pharmacology, Toxicology and Health

Electives

• Environmental Hazard Identification
• Conservation and Sustainable Development
• Pollution Monitoring and Control
• Environmental Health Research Project
• Occupational Health and Safety

Requirements

• Applicants to the Master of Science in Environmental Health and Safety Program must hold a Bachelor's degree in Life Science, Chemistry, Environmental Science or a related field from a recognized university or approved institution, with honors not lower than the second class or with an overall GPA not less than 70%. 
• You will fulfill the English Language requirements with one of the following proficiency attainments:TOEFL-iBT 80, TOEFL PBT 550, IELTS Overall score: 6.0
• You are required to nominate 2-5 referees to support your application. Upon your application submission, the referees will be invited by email to complete a reference report online. Referees may attach additional reference letters to the online report if they wish to.
• Remember that you will need to send official documents to substantiate your qualifications/ exam results after accepting an admission offer. 

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology offers various financial aid options to support students enrolled in their Environmental Health and Safety programmes. These funding opportunities include government-sponsored scholarships, university bursaries, and external grants aimed at encouraging talented students to pursue their studies without financial hindrance. The university provides scholarships based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need, ensuring access to quality education for a diverse student body. For international students, there are also specific financial assistance schemes designed to help cover tuition fees and living expenses, facilitating a more inclusive academic environment. Additionally, the university collaborates with industry partners and governmental agencies to offer sponsored research projects, internships with stipends, and work-study programmes that provide practical experience along with financial benefits. Students are encouraged to apply for the HKUST Student Financial Assistance Scheme, which offers low-interest loans and grants to those who qualify. Furthermore, the university promotes external funding sources such as the Hong Kong Scholarship Fund and other regional scholarship programmes, assisting students in reducing their financial burdens. Tuition fee payment plans and installment options are available to make financial commitments more manageable over the duration of the programme. The university's dedicated financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and support throughout the application process, ensuring that students are aware of all available funding opportunities and requirements. Overall, HKUST aims to make environmental health and safety education accessible to all qualified students through a range of financial support measures, fostering a diverse and globally-minded community committed to sustainable development and safety excellence.

The Master of Science in Environmental Health and Safety at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is a comprehensive postgraduate programme designed to prepare students for roles in ensuring occupational safety, environmental protection, and public health. The programme aims to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to identify, evaluate, and manage risks associated with environmental hazards and workplace safety issues. Students will explore core topics such as hazard analysis, risk assessment, safety management systems, environmental law and regulation, toxicology, and industrial hygiene. The curriculum emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating principles from engineering, biology, public health, and management to foster a holistic understanding of environmental health and safety challenges.

Throughout the course, students have opportunities for hands-on learning through laboratory work, case studies, and industry projects designed to simulate real-world scenarios. The programme often includes site visits to industrial facilities and environmental agencies to provide experiential insights into active safety management practices. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in internships and collaborative projects with local industries, governmental bodies, or international organizations, which enhances their practical experience and professional network.

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for careers in a variety of sectors, including manufacturing, construction, consulting, government regulatory agencies, and non-governmental organizations focused on environmental issues. They may work as safety officers, environmental consultants, health and safety managers, or policy advisors. The programme also provides a strong foundation for students who wish to pursue further research or continue their education through doctoral studies.

The University ensures that the curriculum remains aligned with current industry standards and international best practices by regularly updating course content and engaging faculty with industry experience and academic research. Students benefit from a vibrant academic environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and access to a network of alumni and industry partners. The programme’s goal is to develop competent professionals committed to promoting workplace safety, safeguarding the environment, and protecting public health, both locally and globally.