ECU's Dr Edmore Masaka with Environmental Health Student studying mosquitoes in the field.
ECU introduced an undergraduate degree in Environmental Health (EH) in 2006, but viability issues arose, leading to threats of closure. However, in 2016, a pivotal moment emerged when both EH and occupational safety and health (OSH) majors were up for re-accreditation.
Recognising the overlap between the two fields, ECU merged them into a single program—Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety—accredited by Environmental Health Australia (EHA), the Australian OHS Education Accreditation Board (AOHSEAB), and the British Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH).
Dr Edmore Masaka, Lead and Course Coordinator Occupational Environmental Health and Safety disciplines explains that this innovative approach has produced remarkable outcomes, offering graduates the flexibility to transition between OHS and EH roles. Notably, graduates have been employed in both capacities in smaller local governments and industries.
ECU's Dr Edmore Masaka with studying food safety with Environmental Health Students.
ECU's curriculum, developed in consultation with industry, includes a diploma course embedded within the degree. This diploma prepares graduates for support roles to EHOs, recognised by the State Government as a qualification for appointment as authorized officers under the Public Health Act 2016 (WA).
"ECU's innovative program merging Environmental Health and Occupational Health and Safety has set a benchmark in higher education," said Dr Amanda Devine, Associate Dean, School of Medical Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University.
"This dual-accreditation approach not only addresses the pressing shortage of Environmental Health Officers but also equips graduates with the versatile skills needed to tackle contemporary public health challenges."
The success of this initiative is evident in its graduate outcomes and enrolment figures. The diploma serves as a pathway to employment, with many students initially enrolling in it before progressing to the EH degree.
Additionally, in 2018, ECU combined EH and OSH majors into the Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety program. This dually accredited degree has seen increased enrolments and graduate outcomes, offering graduates diverse employment opportunities.
Students' feedback underscores the program's effectiveness, citing its practical learning experiences, diverse study modes, and industry relevance. The introduction of multiskilled graduates equipped to address emerging challenges, such as those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, further enhances employability.
ECU's approach emphasizes the importance of industry engagement, pedagogical innovation, and flexibility in course development. By addressing accreditation requirements while maintaining program viability and relevance, ECU has played a pivotal role in alleviating the critical shortage of EHOs. The University's commitment to providing alternative pathways into EH education underscores its dedication to fostering a skilled workforce capable of addressing complex public health challenges.
"The flexibility and comprehensive training provided by ECU's Occupational and Environmental Health and Safety program are exactly what our service sector needs. Graduates are well-prepared to handle the diverse demands of local governments and the private sector," stated Andrew Waters, President Environmental Health Australia WA.
