Information on Master of Science (MS) Degree Program in Safety Engineering
Majors Overview September 8, 2015This article talks about Master of Science (M.S.) degree programs in Safety Engineering and their education requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and certification and continuing education choices.
Master of Science (M.S.) Degree Programs in Safety Engineering
Schools may also offer a Master of Science (M.S.) program in Safety Engineering under the title of occupational safety. However, the focus of programs in occupational safety may be more on risk assessment and safety management. The focus of safety engineering programs tends to be more in performance and design. Specific subjects in engineering are also the focus of some safety engineering programs.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree, in relevant undergraduate majors such as physical sciences, computer science, engineering, or mathematics. In some schools, candidates are also required to have a year’s worth of work experience in an engineering capacity.
Coursework
Students may complete the program within about 36 semester hours. The focus of coursework is on developing a sense of safety in a work setting, both for employees and consumers. Core coursework may cover topic areas such as:
•System safety engineering
•Fire protection technology
•Industrial engine
•Research methods
•Ergonomics
•Accident prevention
•Emergency management
•Business ethics
Career Choices
Program graduates can seek career opportunities in safety, health and security. They may choose from possible job titles such as:
•Occupational safety administrator
•Government regulatory specialist
•Security design director
•Systems security manager
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2012 – 2022 decade, health and safety engineers are expected to see an eleven percent job growth (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2012, these safety professionals brought in an average annual wage of $76,830 (BLS).
Certification and Continuing Education Choices
Program graduates seeking continuing education may pursue an Engineering Ph.D. program. The American Society for Industrialized Security (ASIS) offers the Certified Protection Professional certification; other certification options for program graduates include the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP)’s Certified Safety Professional certification.