Environmental health nursing degrees are a unique option for some nurses who want a different type of career. This degree is relatively new and was created specifically to help with workplace safety. These nurses are often referred to as occupational and environmental health nurses, or simply occupational health nurses, as well. Their job is to help provide intervention in the workplace to help with safety, environmental health risks, injuries, and ergonomics. They also need to act as first responders in emergencies and train others to handle emergency care situations. Another role of these nurses is to develop programs for proactive employee health, including smoking cessation and fitness incentive programs within the workplace.

Nurses that are trained in environmental health will be employed as employee health and safety managers or coordinators, medical officers in the workplace, and occupational/environmental health managers. The job requirements include things like record keeping, management of insurance plans, immunizations in the workplace and an assortment of other responsibilities that will vary from one workplace to the next. There are some risks involved in this career, such as hazardous materials exposure or heavy equipment risks, depending on the specific workplace where environmental health nurses are employed.

The environmental health nursing degrees require extensive training in nursing and workplace standards alike. The Clinical Nurse Specialist degree is what is typically obtained for this career, but many schools are now offering specific occupational and environmental nursing programs specifically for nurses who choose this career. The training generally involves a master's degree and focuses on how to work with employers, how to educate in the workplace, and methods to developing better plans in the workplace. There are a variety of different training methods and experience-related paths that nurses can take to become proficient in this career.

All candidates for environmental health nursing degrees must have 4000 hours of occupational health jobs, RN certification, and be willing to complete continuing education demands within the career field. Nationally recognized exams are administered by the American Association of Occupational Health Nurses, and are required for certification in this career. Professional nurses in the business and industry sectors are becoming much more popular because it helps alleviate the costs of workplace injuries and health issues through prevention, education, and management onsite. The number of careers in this field is likely to increase substantially, making it a good choice for anyone who wants a not-so-typical nursing career. The average salary for environmental health nurses is around $71,000, but can vary depending on location, experience, demand and the company that you work for.

If environmental health nursing sounds like the career for you, Directory of Schools has what you need. We have compiled the best nursing programs and other resources to help you get the most from your education, no matter what you have in mind. Take advantage of our efforts and use all the resources that we have available. Check out our school search to explore degree programs near you and get started on your nursing program today.