Learn about degree programs and professional certifications that can prepare you for a career in health inspection. You can also find out where you could work as a health inspector.
What Degree Programs are Available for Health Inspectors?
In order to obtain a job as a certified health inspector, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field is typically required. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, undergraduate majors in subjects like occupational safety and health may be advantageous, but you might also find work with a degree in a broader field, like chemistry or engineering. Master's degree programs are available in subjects like public health, and occupational health may be preferred or required for some positions. At both the undergraduate and graduate level in occupational health and safety or public health programs, you might study subjects like health policy, risk assessment and environmental health.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degree Levels</b></td><td>Bachelor's and master's</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Certification</b></td><td>Exams through the American Board of Health Physicists, American Board of Industrial Hygiene or the Board of Certified Safety Professionals</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Career Fields</b></td><td>Construction, factories, food and beverage, government</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)*</b></td><td> $76,340 (for occupational health and safety specialists)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)*</b></td><td> 4% (for occupational health and safety specialists)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---HowDoIGetCertified">How Do I Get Certified?</h3><p>Voluntary safety certifications are offered through multiple organizations, including the the American Board of Health Physicists and the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). The BCSP has a variety of certifications available for interested professionals. You should review the requirements for each certification as they all hold different educational and on-the-job requirements.
</p><p>After completing a bachelors program, you can also look at the certification options that are available through the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH). The ABIH requires a degree, specific coursework and current employment in the industrial hygiene or health safety field. If you meet all of the requirements, you will need to take an exam in order to earn your certification. According to the BLS, certification may be preferred among employers.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatIndustriesCanIWorkFor">What Industries Can I Work For?</h3><p>Upon completion of an undergraduate or graduate degree program, you can begin to work as a health inspector in a variety of fields and departments. You could work in a variety of industries and settings, including food and beverage, factories, construction, worker safety and government. According to the BLS, a health inspector with a wide knowledge of health and safety practices and procedures will have the most opportunities available to them.</p>
