College of Business and Economics

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY

Bachelor’s Degree Programs

In an age where technology and science are rapidly advancing, there is a critical need to protect America's workforce, the public and the natural environment from harm.

Occupational safety professionals are concerned with the interaction between people and the physical, chemical, biological and psychological factors which affect their safety, health and productivity.

From workplace safety inspections to health engineering, environmental management and building code compliance, a career in any branch of this dynamic field will allow you to play an integral role in protecting employees from dangerous workplace accidents, as well as to preserve the natural environment from potential harm for the public.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the field of occupational safety is one that is growing.

  • There is a 14% expected increase in employment for occupational health and safety technicians and specialists between 2023 and 2033
  • $81,140 was the median yearly wage for occupational health and safety specialists as of 2023
  • Around 18,200 annual job openings for specialists and technicians are projected within the decade.

In addition to our on-campus program, we offer the same high-quality curriculum and instruction in an online format.

4-year plan Apply

96% career placement

Nearly all of our recently graduated occupational safety majors are employed or in a graduate program. (2022-23 research survey respondents)

Why major in Occupational Safety at UW-Whitewater?

We explore all dimensions of safety.

The field of occupational safety includes a large variety of careers with a multitude of different pathways. To match this expansive career path, UW-Whitewater offers courses that touch on many different safety and health-related subjects.

When you graduate with a bachelor’s degree in occupational safety, you will have acquired a wide range of knowledge that will make you a valuable employee no matter your chosen field.

Courses in construction safety will prepare you for a career that is centered around protecting those who work in construction careers from accidents and injuries, managing accident and loss prevention finances, and ensuring a healthy work environment for all.

Environmental management focuses on the importance of preserving the natural environment in a world that produces mass amounts of business-related waste. Courses for this emphasis highlight the need for proper handling of hazardous materials, the safety aspects of measuring air pollution and chemical safety, and how to implement safety measures that protect both workers and the planet as a whole.

 

ABET accredited

Our occupational safety program at UW-Whitewater is accredited by the Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission of ABET, a nonprofit organization that strives to support STEM students around the country. ABET accreditation helps ensure that students enter their chosen career fields with the proper knowledge base, from environmental awareness, to health and safety standards.

black and white ABET logo.

What our Occupational Safety students do

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Explore safety-related scenarios through an environmentally conscious approach

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Gain hands-on experience by joining student organizations

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Examine case studies of how design and financial management contribute to workplace safety

Hands-on learning experiences

We recognize the value in gaining real experience in your intended field during your academic career. Through internships, clubs, and immersive hands-on courses, occupational safety students at UW-Whitewater have the chance to become active participants in workplace and environmental safety before they graduate.

 

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Internships

A student’s final semester in the occupational and environmental safety program at UW-Whitewater consists of their placement into an individualized internship depending on their field of focus. The program’s internship coordinator works to connect students with companies that match their interests and career goals.

Career-focused events

The university offers opportunities for occupational safety students to connect with employers and further their knowledge through campus events such as the Occupational Safety Career Fair.

Scholarship opportunities

There are a variety of scholarships available for our College of Business and Economics students, including those that focus specifically on supporting occupational safety majors in their education.

Recently, two Occupational Safety students received a national award from the Board of Certified Safety Professionals, an organization that aims to recognize and support outstanding students pursuing degrees in the area of occupational health and safety.

Campus and community involvement

Safety Organization

Want to connect with other students who share your interest in workplace and environmental safety? The UW-Whitewater Safety Organization opens the door for occupational safety students to form meaningful bonds, expand their knowledge, and witness the real-life impact of their intended career path.

In addition, you’ll find organizations like:

  • Association for Supply Chain Management
  • Enactus
  • Data Analytics Club
  • Society for Human Resource Management
  • Students Allied for a Green Earth
View complete list of student organizations

What our graduates do

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Field safety coordinators

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Risk management specialists

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Safety engineers

Occupational Safety jobs: What can you do with an Occupational Safety degree?

If you want to learn how to become a safety inspector, or work for a wide range of safety jobs in businesses, companies, and organizations around the country, a UW-Whitewater degree can help you achieve your career goals. Our occupational safety graduates have found positions in companies and organizations such as:

  • Blattner Energy
  • Gilbane Building Co.
  • M.A. Mortenson
  • Sentry Equipment
  • State of Wisconsin
  • Uihlein Electric

 

Graduate and professional school

After earning a bachelor’s degree in occupational safety, students can pursue many possible graduate and professional degrees, such as the Master of Science in Environmental Safety and Health program at UW-Whitewater.

Our Faculty

UW-Whitewater’s Department of Occupational and Environmental Safety and Health is home to experienced faculty who put student success at the forefront. We take active roles in students’ academic careers and maintain active networks and relationships with companies, governments and industry. We are published researchers and credentialed professionals.

Meet our faculty

Contact us

Want to learn more about earning an occupational safety degree at UW-Whitewater?

262-472-1117 | safety@uww.edu

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UW-Whitewater offers the following Occupational Safety undergraduate options:

Minors:

Certificates:

  • Construction Safety Management (coming fall 2025)

Along with the university’s general education requirements, students pursuing a degree in occupational safety will take a multitude of specialized courses that focus on a wide range of health and safety standards, such as:

  • Personal and public safety
  • Behavioral aspects of accident prevention
  • Construction safety
  • Fire protection and prevention
  • Ergonomics
  • Principles of environmental management
  • Analysis and design for safety in industrial operations

To apply to UW-Whitewater, you’ll complete the standard application for admission and indicate your interest in the Occupational Safety major.

Apply

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