Environmental Science, Safety & Health

The Environmental Science, Safety, and Health program will provide you with the knowledge to ensure a safe and healthy environment and to balance the protection of our air, land, and water with economic development. The skills you gain will be based on a combination of laboratory and field experience.

Zane State College's three environmental labs are equipped with the latest in analytical equipment, such as spectrophotometers, ion selective analysis instruments, portable test kits, and meters. A large number of environmental sites, such as wildlife areas, state parks, wetlands, lakes and rivers are located close to campus and are used as sites for student learning experiences. Enhanced computer skills, including instruction on ArcView, GIS, and Microsoft Office are taught within the curriculum. You will possess the skills to participate in laboratory and/or field work, conducting impact studies, utilizing test equipment, gathering and organizing data, and generating reports.

Environmental Science, Safety & Health technicians assist biologists, chemists, and engineers in the areas of water and wastewater treatment; surface and ground water monitoring; wetlands ecology and biomonitoring; air quality monitoring; management, transportation, disposal, and storage of solid and hazardous wastes, and domestic and industrial health and safety. Their work takes place within local, state, and federal agencies, private consulting firms, and municipalities. Graduates from the program typically earn starting salaries in the mid-20s with tremendous potential for advancement.