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/moosealoose11690 MS, CIH Oct 29 '19
So I'm going to add my 2 cents in. I'm finishing up Montana tech's distance program. I was in a position where I did not want to put myself in further debt nor did I want to quit my job. Experience is a must. I did my undergrad in IH, so I had a good base but its bar none when you hit the real world. Maybe it's just me, but I was top of my class in undergrad but school never really prepares you for applying those concepts in the real world. I chose to pursue mtechs distance program because it was abet accredited, I didnt have to lose my income source, and I can still gain experience. Yeah there is no substitute for in class education but there is also no substitute for on the job experience. That being said you get out what you put into online classes. Mtech has many classes where if you dont follow the online lectures, take notes and study you will fail. It also has the bs PowerPoint lectures. It all depends on your teacher. I've also experienced both in the classroom. I think it all depends where your priorities lie. I have an abet accredited degree that was partially paid for by work and I've been very successful in my career only 6 years into it. Mtech Tulane and JH are not university of Phoenix (sorry if I sound like an ass), they are well respected schools with well respected programs, including distance. That being said, if you're looking to do research, you won't be able to do that with a distance program.