Occupational Health and Safety

The Bachelor of Arts in Occupational Health and Safety at Ryerson University offers students comprehensive training in identifying, assessing, and managing workplace hazards to ensure the well-being of employees and organizations. This program is designed to prepare graduates with the necessary skills to develop effective safety policies, implement risk management strategies, and promote a safety-conscious culture across various industries. Throughout the program, students will explore core topics such as industrial hygiene, accident prevention, emergency response planning, occupational health legislation, and ergonomic assessments. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical application, the curriculum integrates classroom instruction with hands-on experiences, including fieldwork, case studies, and internships. Students will learn to analyze complex safety issues, communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and utilize leading safety management systems. The program also covers emerging trends in occupational health, such as mental health awareness, ergonomics in the modern workplace, and technological advancements in monitoring workplace safety. Graduates will be equipped to work in occupational health and safety roles across government agencies, private sector companies, and non-profit organizations. They will have the skills needed to conduct workplace hazard assessments, develop safety training programs, and ensure compliance with federal and provincial legislation. The Bachelor of Arts in Occupational Health and Safety aims to foster a proactive and ethical approach to workplace safety, emphasizing continuous improvement and innovation in health and safety management. With the growing importance of workplace safety in today’s dynamic environment, this program provides a strong foundation for students seeking to make a meaningful impact in the health and safety field and build rewarding careers dedicated to protecting workers and promoting safe workplaces.

The Occupational Health and Safety program at Ryerson University offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for a dynamic and vital career in workplace safety management. This program emphasizes the principles of health, safety, and environmental management, equipping students with the skills necessary to identify, evaluate, and mitigate occupational risks in a variety of industries. Throughout the coursework, students explore key topics such as hazard recognition, risk assessment, accident prevention, and legal and regulatory frameworks governing workplace safety. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application to ensure graduates are well-prepared to address real-world safety challenges. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on training through internships, co-op placements, and laboratory exercises that simulate actual safety scenarios. The curriculum covers essential areas such as ergonomics, fire safety, industrial hygiene, and emergency preparedness, fostering a holistic understanding of occupational health and safety practices. In addition to technical training, the program places a strong emphasis on communication skills, leadership, and ethical considerations, training students to effectively promote safety culture within organizations. Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers as safety officers, compliance officers, risk managers, and safety consultants across a broad spectrum of industries, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and government agencies. The program prepares students not only to meet current industry standards but also to stay adaptable in an evolving regulatory environment. With access to state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty members with extensive industry experience, and a supportive academic community, Ryerson’s Occupational Health and Safety program offers an ideal environment for learners committed to fostering safe and healthy workplaces. Upon completion, graduates are eligible for certification and are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the protection of worker health and safety in their professional practice.

Program Requirements:

Applicants to the Occupational Health and Safety undergraduate program at Ryerson University are generally required to have completed the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, with a minimum overall average as specified by the university admissions criteria. Specific prerequisite courses typically include English and Mathematics, with some programs recommending prior coursework in Sciences such as Biology or Chemistry. International students must submit proof of proficiency in English through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL, with scores meeting or exceeding the university's minimum requirements.

Admission decisions are based on a combination of academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and relevant experience in health and safety fields when applicable. Applicants with prior post-secondary education related to health sciences or safety are considered favorably, especially if they demonstrate related work or volunteer experience. Transfer students from other post-secondary institutions must submit official transcripts for credit evaluation and may need to meet specific course prerequisites.

Once admitted, students are expected to complete a series of core courses covering topics such as Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, Risk Management, Workplace Ergonomics, Industrial Hygiene, and Emergency Response Planning. The program also includes practical training components, such as laboratory work and co-op placements, which provide real-world experience in occupational health and safety settings. Students must maintain satisfactory academic standing throughout the program, typically a minimum GPA requirement, in order to progress and graduate.

In addition, students are encouraged to earn certifications such as the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) and First Aid/CPR as part of their coursework or extracurricular activities. Graduation mandates the successful completion of a capstone project or comprehensive exam depending on the specific year and curriculum updates. Continuing education opportunities post-graduation are available for students wishing to attain certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Canadian Registered Safety Professional (CRSP), which can enhance employability in the occupational health and safety field.

Note: For the most current and detailed program requirements, prospective students should consult the official Ryerson University website or contact the admissions office directly.

Financing studies for the Occupational Health and Safety program at Ryerson University are available through a combination of scholarships, bursaries, government aid, and student work opportunities. Students are encouraged to explore various financial assistance options to support their education. Ryerson University offers several merit-based scholarships specifically for students enrolled in health and safety programs, which are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and community involvement. Bursaries are also available to students demonstrating financial need, providing essential support to help cover tuition fees and living expenses.

In addition to institutional aid, students can apply for government financial assistance programs such as OSAP (Ontario Student Assistance Program), which offers loans and grants to eligible students to offset educational costs. Many students also seek external scholarships from health and safety organizations and industry-related associations. These external awards often recognize academic excellence, commitment to workplace safety, or leadership in community initiatives.

Work-study programs and part-time employment within the university or partnered organizations can further help students finance their education while gaining valuable industry experience. Ryerson University also offers financial planning resources and counseling services to assist students in managing their educational expenses and exploring additional funding opportunities.

Overall, the financing landscape for Occupational Health and Safety students at Ryerson University is designed to be comprehensive, supporting students from diverse financial backgrounds to successfully complete their studies and enter the workforce equipped with relevant knowledge and skills.

Occupational Health and Safety is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in workplace safety, health regulation, and risk management. Offered by Ryerson University, this program focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify hazards, assess risks, and implement effective safety protocols across various industries. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including occupational health principles, safety legislation, accident prevention, environmental health, ergonomics, and emergency response strategies. Students are also introduced to the legal and ethical responsibilities involved in maintaining a safe working environment.

Throughout the program, students engage in both theoretical coursework and practical experiences. They learn about the development and enforcement of safety policies, conducting safety audits, and promoting safety culture in organizations. The program emphasizes current best practices and emerging trends in occupational health and safety, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet contemporary challenges. Special attention is given to areas such as industrial hygiene, toxicology, and the management of workplace health programs.

The program is structured to accommodate students with diverse backgrounds, including options for part-time study and co-op placements that provide real-world experience. The co-op component enables students to gain invaluable industry insights, build professional networks, and improve employability upon graduation. Graduates typically find employment as health and safety officers, environmental health specialists, compliance officers, or safety consultants across sectors such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and government.

Ryerson University’s Occupational Health and Safety program is accredited and recognized for its high standards of academic excellence and practical relevance. Faculty members bring extensive industry experience, which enriches classroom instruction and mentorship. The program also encourages active involvement in professional associations and continuous learning, preparing students for lifelong careers dedicated to promoting safe and healthy workplaces. With a strong foundation in regulatory frameworks, technical expertise, and leadership skills, graduates of this program are equipped to make significant contributions to occupational health and safety initiatives globally.