r/industrialhygiene • u/StayFreshByBeinSilly • Sep 08 '19
How to choose IH Master's programs?
I've decided to apply for Master's in Industrial Hygiene programs.
How should I choose one?
I started with a list of all the ABET-accredited IH programs and all the NIOSH ERCs. Should one be prioritized over the other? Ideally, the school would be both, but I'm leaning toward ABET programs so I can take the CIH sooner.
Also, should I do an MS or MPH? Research is currently not an interest for me. I've been comparing the coursework if the school has both programs, and they seem pretty similar.
Finally, what do you think of accredited online programs compared to in-person programs (Johns Hopkins, Tulane, Montana Tech)?
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u/TheSteezy CIH Sep 24 '19
Do not do an online program. Industrial Hygiene is confusing and there are a lot of nitty gritty details that you can only get in a classroom. Particle statistics and stokes equations are tough to figure out on your own. It really depends on what kind of IH you want to do. If you want to be in industry, be a consultant, or do research.
Different programs will help you to network in different industries depending on where the professors do their research and the industry in that area. You want to pick a program that has professors that are good at what you're interested in.
As far as the ABET accreditation goes... If the school is a high caliber university they may scoff at needing an ABET accreditation because "the academic rigor of the school exceeds accreditation criteria".
I just graduated from the MPH in IH at Berkeley and feel it has prepared me for what I need to be a good Industrial Hygienist (and beat IH math into me enough where it won't be tough to go back and look at notes when it comes time to take the CIH). Don't let the ABET accreditation be the factor that makes you decide on a school. Look at what research the faculty has done, look at their CV/Resume, ask yourself if they are the kind of people you want to learn from. I believe the NIOSH traineeship grant only applies to residents of that state so i would reccomend applying to the one in your state if there is one. Also, the NIOSH thing pays for everything: Tuition, Health Insurance, Fee's and a meager to okay stipend (Berkeley gave me $1873 a month).
Ultimately, pick the program that is going to fast track you to the sector where you want to end up. This means you should pick a school near a place you'll get hired (good market) and with professors that know people in those businesses. I'd HIGHLY recommend you attend some AIHA local section meetings and talk with local IHs.