According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians is projected to grow 5 percent from 2021 to 2031, about as fast as the average for all occupations. About 14,500 openings for occupational health and safety specialists and technicians are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Occupational health and safety specialists and technicians will be needed to work in a variety of industries and government agencies to ensure that employers are adhering to both existing and new regulations.
Whether or not you choose to earn a master’s degree after earning your bachelor’s is highly dependent on your field and career goals. In many fields a master’s degree can increase promotion potential or boost earning power. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median weekly earnings of someone holding a master’s degree in 2021 was $1,574, compared to the average median weekly salary of $1,334 earned by those with a bachelor’s degree. That’s a pay difference of more than 16%.
It’s important to understand that educational requirements and preferences will vary greatly by field and even by organization. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these requirements and preferences to help you stand out from the competition.
People with a master’s degree earn
*National job opportunities data is based on national medians and figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational outlook handbook.
*Local job opportunities data is based on estimated base pay and figures from Indeed.com.
Earning an occupational safety and health degree from Eastern Kentucky University can be a step on your path to learning and leadership. The safety strategies you learn here can make an immediate impact on your career path and the well-being of workers in your community.
Specialized coursework provides experience and knowledge you can use immediately in your workplace and add to your resume. You will gain a strong understanding of the toxicological effects of certain substances, chemicals and metals; learn to recognize and prevent occupational illnesses; analyze and examine environmental and public health risks, and more.
Set yourself apart in a competitive landscape and gain the skills to become a detail-oriented, problem-solving leader who can protect people from work-related hazards, accidents and harm.
The EKU Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all of your career and professional development needs. We offer a variety of services to current online EKU students and alumni to help you with your career development, decision-making and job search.
Services include: