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overview
Note: This program is no longer accepting applications for the September 2010 intake. Please check our list of programs that may have space available or access our program database for a complete list of BCIT programs.
The International Federation of Environmental Health ( IFEH) conference hosted by the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors ( CIPHI) will be held in Vancouver, BC, from September 6–10, 2010. This is a unique opportunity for Environmental Health students to attend an international event locally. CIPHI reps have asked that staff and students of the Environmental Health program participate. To accommodate attendance at this event, the Environmental Health Program will start on August 31, 2010. Students who attend the event will be required to pay a $350 student conference registration fee. The department strongly encourages all accepted students to attend. Accepted students will receive a letter outlining conference dates and registration process.
The Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer (PHI/EHO) is a vital member of the public health team and delivery system. The role of the PHI/EHO includes preventing disease, promoting health and improving the environment through the use of education, consultation, inspection and monitoring techniques and, if necessary, by the enforcement of health legislation. The scope of interest covers food hygiene, insect and rodent control, communicable disease investigation, public accommodation, community care facilities, public recreational facilities, water supply and waste disposal systems, occupational health and safety and environmental pollution - air, water, soil and noise. The graduate provides leadership and technical expertise in the development of long-range planning to protect and improve the public's health. To meet these demands, the candidate must be a mature, practical person and possess excellent communication skills, as well as considerable tact and discretion in working with people at all levels within the community. Proficiency is required in problem-solving and decision-making.
The Program
The aim of the program is to prepare students to enter the field of environmental health as professional, effective members of a multi-disciplinary health team. Graduates will be able to recognize, evaluate and manage environmental factors that impact on human health, and will have the knowledge and skills needed to meet a growing range of environmental health roles and responsibilities. Specifically, the goals of the program are to:
- prepare graduates with the expanded knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to meet the current and evolving needs of employers, the profession, and the community
- foster in graduates a commitment to life-long learning and professional growth
- provide an appropriate combination of specialty, research and multi-disciplinary courses that will promote the development of critical thinking, problem solving, decision making and communication skills.
The cross-disciplinary curriculum includes general studies in health and the health engineering sciences, liberal studies, health care management, math and the physical and social sciences. Students learn of the many health hazards in the environment and develop skills to measure, evaluate and recommend controls for these hazards. Instructional modes include lectures, labs, guided learning, field trips, directed studies and practical experiences. Environmental health is a complex and rapidly changing area of human endeavour. The program provides a firm foundation of education and experience in the sciences and relates to the reduction of injuries and the protection of human health.
Industry (Practical) Experience
Practical experience is a significant component of this educational program. It consists of field trips, projects and hands-on activities as well as three months of off-campus and directly related experience in an appropriate agency (Practicum). Additional information for the Practicum:
- This course is required for graduation.
- You need a valid driver's licence and access to a vehicle.
- The program usually assigns students to practicum sites.
- The Vancouver area offers a limited number of positions, so you may have to relocate.
- The positions are unpaid.
- You are responsible for any relocation costs (if applicable), accommodation, and transportation costs to the practicum location.
- A criminal record search may be required.
program entry
Entrance requirements
Applicants are required to complete one of the options described below:
A. Two years of post-secondary course work
General Requirements:
60 semester credits of first and second year courses. These must include a minimum of 18 credits of Science at the second-year level taken in two or more subject areas. The program gives preference to applicants who have:
- Achieved a C+ or better in the required entry courses
- Achieved a B or better in both English 12 (or its equivalent) and post-secondary English or Communication courses as defined below (minimum C+)
- Completed their entrance requirements within five years of applying
Check for acceptable equivalent courses taught in BC high schools.
Specific Requirements:
- 6 credits of English or Communication, composition courses preferred
- 6 credits of Math which shall include 3 credits of Biostatistics (preferred) or Statistics
- 36 credits in Science which shall include Chemistry, Biology and Microbiology; also recommended are Organic Chemistry, Physics, Biochemistry and Anatomy & Physiology; 18 credits must be at the second-year level in two or more subject areas
- 3 credits of Computers, basic computer literacy in MS Office preferred
Applicants who have completed non-Canadian post-secondary studies may require a comprehensive evaluation of their credentials by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES).
B. An Appropriate Credential
General Requirements:
An appropriate credential such as:
- a BCIT Diploma of Technology in Occupational Health and Safety, Food Technology or Biotechnology or equivalent, or
- an Associate Degree in Science from a designated B.C. post-secondary course or equivalent, or
- a B.Sc. or equivalent (for example, a B.A. with a significant science content may be considered).
The program gives preference to applicants who have:
- Achieved a C+ or better in the required entry courses
- Achieved a B or better in both English 12 (or its equivalent) and a post-secondary English or Communication course as defined below (minimum C+)
- Completed their entrance requirements within five years of applying
Specific Requirements:
- 3 credits of post-secondary English or Communication, composition course preferred
- At least one post-secondary course or equivalent, in each of the following topics:
- Biology
- Microbiology
- Chemistry
- Math or Calculus
- Biostatistics or statistics (may be taken prior to Level 7)
- Computer Skills (may be taken prior to graduation)
- Also recommended are post-secondary courses in Organic Chemistry, Physics, Biochemistry and Anatomy & Physiology
Applicants who have completed non-Canadian post-secondary studies may require a comprehensive evaluation of their credentials by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES). Additional Criteria
Applicants must be in good health with adequate hearing and vision. We suggest an up-to-date immunization program for applicants accepted into the program. The nature of the work in this program and career is physically demanding. If you have questions regarding the physical demands, please contact the program head. Student applicants with disabilities should also contact the Disability Resource Centre at 604-451-6963. Applicants should be able to show evidence of maturity, have a positive outlook and an interest in serving the public.
International students who are applying for student authorization should request a work permit to cover the practicum course at the same time as they apply for their student authorization.
We suggest that people interested in this program contact a health agency in their area to speak to a PHI/EHO about the job. Note that workloads in some agencies will limit the available time for such inquiries. If possible, both a rural and an urban agency should be approached as the role of the PHI/EHO can vary considerably in these two settings. Alternatively, contact the program head to speak to PHIs on faculty about the profession. We also recommend acquiring keyboarding (typing) skills in preparation for computer use.
Selection Process
BCIT selects candidates based on currency and strength of prerequisites, relevant experience and demonstrated interest in this field. To support your application, we suggest you include the following:
- Resume.
- Covering letter/statement of purpose including information on:
- why you have chosen Environmental Health as a career.
- what steps you have taken in selecting this career path (i.e. speaking to a PHI/EHO).
- how your past experience has prepared you for this career (if applicable).
- Reference letters (three maximum) which refer to your maturity, your ability to communicate, and any other personal attributes that will be of benefit in this career.
Please clearly specify "Environmental Health" on your application to prevent confusion with other BCIT programs. You are welcome to submit your application in advance of the additional supporting documentation listed above. If you wish to add information to your application, please forward the items to the Admissions department. Clearly state your name and BCIT student number on each submission.
BC provincial exams
For programs beginning in August 2007 or later which require Grade 12 Math and Science courses, BCIT will not require the applicant to write the provincial exam. Provincial exam marks will still be required for English 12, Communications 12, and Technical and Professional Communications 12.
Application processing
October 1 of the previous year until the program fills.
Applications are considered for a specific intake. Application Deadline
We recommend you apply as early as possible to allow you to complete outstanding prerequisites or to upgrade if necessary. We may make initial selections as we receive applications. While there is no official application deadline, we strongly encourage you to apply no later than April 30. We accept applications until we make selections and create a waitlist.
For information regarding the status of your application, call the Advanced Placement and Degree Programs office at 604-432-8230.
costs & supplies
Books and supplies
Level 5: $558; Level 6: $370; Level 7: $499; Level 8: $478
(general estimated cost, and subject to change) CSA approved safety boots are required; details will be provided in Level 5.
courses
Program matrix
| Level 5 |
Credits |
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ENVH 1100 |
Introduction to Environmental Health
Introduces the role, duties, responsibilities and behaviour of the PHI/EHO. Describes relevant professional organizations and government agencies, examines the development of legislation and the general application of legislation, and introduces blueprint reading.
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3.0 |
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ENVH 1143 |
Pools and Recreational Water
Introduces the health concerns associated with swimming pools and bathing beaches. Examines the operational characteristics and requirements of different pool types in order to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to protect the public health. The section on recreational bathing beaches focuses on assessment and monitoring of the beach water and its surrounding environment. Examines the various provincial regulations and national standards governing these topics.
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4.0 |
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ENVH 1210 |
Soils
Provides an introduction to the development and properties of soil. Uses these properties to determine the soil's capacity to move liquid waste and domestic sewage, including basic geological information, soil formation, profiles, structures, textures, porosity, pH, permeability, etc. Also includes interpretation of soil and air photo maps.
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3.0 |
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ENVH 1220 |
Hydrogeology
Provides an introduction to the concepts and methods used in hydrogeology that are most pertinent to the needs of the Environmental Health professional. Relates these needs to the role of the Environmental Health Officer/Public Health Inspector in preventing and solving ground water contamination problems. Uses these principles to assess risk to both health and the environment.
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3.0 |
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ENVH 2210 |
Sewage Disposal Methods
Describes methods of collecting and disposing of liquid wastes without causing an environmental concern or a public health hazard. The basics of residential plumbing for water supply and wastewater removal are discussed. Residential, commercial, and large- and small-scale wastewater flows are examined. The relative effectiveness of primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment systems are discussed. The role of the PHI/EHO in on-site sewage disposal and treatment is discussed with respect to the Sewerage Regulation and the Sewerage System Standard Practice Manual. Prerequisites: ENVH 1210** and ENVH 1220** (** must be taken concurrently)
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3.0 |
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ENVH 3600 |
Environmental Assessment
Introduces common chemical and physical factors that potentially constitute environmental health hazards. Includes examples such as gases and vapours, noise, and radiation (including light). Through lectures and laboratory exercises, teaches how to recognize these factors, evaluate the degree of the hazard using appropriate environmental sampling equipment, and be aware of possible control measures. Requires an off-campus practicum component. Prerequisite: Post-secondary Math.
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5.0 |
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FOOD 3020 |
Food Microbiology for Environmental Health
Provides an overview of the laboratory techniques used in the detection, enumeration and identification of food-related micro-organisms of importance in the field of environmental health. Includes basic microbiological safety procedures, aseptic techniques, sample collection techniques, proper plating methods and isolation techniques. Provides sampling on a variety of foods and food contact surfaces. Discusses control techniques such as food preservation and the use of sanitizing agents. Prerequisite: Post-secondary Microbiology.
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4.0 |
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| Level 6 |
Credits |
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BHSC 7423 |
Communicable Disease Control (ENVH)
Teaches you to assess existing measures and propose new measures for the control of communicable diseases. Systematically deals with bacterial, rickettsial, viral, parasitic infections and intoxications. Emphasizes the concepts of microbial reservoirs, modes of transmission and preventable measures. Also provides opportunities to enhance communication, teamwork, critical thinking, problem solving and computer skills within the context of communicable disease control.
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5.5 |
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CHEM 3321 |
Toxicology for Environmental Health
Provides students with a background in the science of toxicology. The course covers basic biochemistry and the effects of environmental chemical pollutants on organs and body systems. The chemicals discussed include heavy metals, pesticides, organic solvents and air pollutants. Prerequisite: Post-secondary Chemistry, Organic Chemistry preferred.
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3.0 |
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ENVH 1300 |
Food Hygiene
Provides the knowledge and skills required to protect public health in matters relating to food processing, handling, storage, and food facility design and equipment. Emphasizes legislative control and enforcement, inspection techniques, and the causes and investigation of foodborne illness. Includes an off-campus practicum requirement.
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8.0 |
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ENVH 2200 |
Water Supply*
Examines the methods and processes used to develop and supply a safe drinking water supply. Discusses both small and large scale water supply and distribution systems, and interprets chemical and bacteriological sample results. Also presents the steps used in investigating and controlling a waterborne illness. Prerequisites: ENVH 1210 and ENVH 1220
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3.5 |
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ENVH 3100 |
Applied Law
Presents a study of how the legal and federal/provincial judicial systems can be utilized by PHI/EHOs as one of the tools of their profession. Builds on the knowledge gained from ENVH 1100 by focusing on the practical realities of the enforcement of legislation. Includes collection and presentation of evidence, preparation of information, ambiguities, liability, appeals, freedom of information, the use of ticketing, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms regarding the rights of entry and privacy, injunctions and other remedies. Uses actual case studies to illustrate the importance of these topics.
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5.5 |
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ENVH 3250 |
Land Use*
Focuses on the responsibility and duties of the PHI/EHO in land development. The process by which land is zoned, subdivided and developed is examined. Environmental assessments are discussed in detail.
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1.5 |
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ENVH 3550 |
Human Relations*
Describes how to employ good human relations skills and communication styles in carrying out the duties and responsibilities of a PHI/EHO. Examines effective behaviours and interactive techniques using role-playing exercises and case studies.
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2.5 |
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ENVH 4600 |
Indoor Air Quality*
Examines chemical, physical and biological factors relating to indoor air quality. Through lecture and lab exercises, builds on the concepts introduced in ENVH 3600. Discusses the sources of gases and vapours, particulates and microorganisms in homes, commercial premises and facilities. Addresses issues relating to survey design and data interpretation. Examines options for improving indoor air quality. Requires an off-campus practicum component. Prerequisites: ENVH 3600
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3.5 |
| * indicates a half-term course |
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| Level 7 |
Credits |
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BUSA 7250 |
Management Skills and Applications
The course provides an overview of the basic skills of a manager and applies these skills through a series of projects and case studies. It examines the evolution of management and the organizational culture and environment. It also teaches the decision-making skills and the skills involved in planning, organizing, leading and controlling, including planning and facilitating change, teamwork, applying motivational techniques and effective communication.
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3.0 |
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CHEM 7323 |
Analytical Methods
Students apply the principles and laboratory procedures of analytical methods used for the analysis of environmental samples. Analytical methods used include field test kits and instrumental methods; spectroscopic, electrochemical and chromatographic. Through projects and laboratory assignments, students have the opportunity to demonstrate teamwork, leadership, problem solving/critical thinking and communication skills. Prerequisite: Post-secondary chemistry.
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4.0 |
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ENVH 2100 |
Environmental Health Legislation
Builds on the concepts introduced in ENVH 1100. Examines a wide variety of legislation relevant to the field of environmental health. Provides practice interpreting and applying selected pieces of legislation and examines the practical limitations that are encountered in enforcement situations. Includes housing, institutional and community care facilities, personal services establishments and emergency measures. Prerequisites: ENVH 1100
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3.0 |
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ENVH 7002 |
Outdoor Air Quality
Builds on the concepts covered in ENVH 4600 as they apply to outdoor air quality. Examines the role of the PHI/EHO in conducting investigations and recommending control measures. Also discusses the potential health risks associated with outdoor air. Helps develop investigative skills and creative problem solving and diagnostic abilities within the context of outdoor air quality assessment. Prerequisites: ENVH 4600
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2.0 |
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ENVH 7051 |
Solid and Hazardous Waste
This course examines the disposal of solid and hazardous waste. Topics in the solid waste section include the design of a sanitary landfill site, monitoring a disposal site, land reclamation, and dealing with illegal disposal sites. Special wastes such as septage and agricultural wastes are considered. The hazardous waste section includes topics such as designing, monitoring, and inspecting a hazardous waste management facility. Potential health risks are discussed. In addition to developing core competencies in environmental health, this course enables students to enhance their critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and interpersonal skills. Prerequisites: ENVH 3250
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3.0 |
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ENVH 7266 |
Epidemiology
Teaches application of critical appraisal skills in examining sources and uses of epidemiologic data for public health field work and health services planning, evaluation and administration. Provides practical experience in outbreak investigation using case studies. Explores data collection methods, designs for applied research studies, techniques for data analysis, and scientific communication. Provides the skills to conduct field investigations under supervision, assess the validity of scientific reports and prepare reports for publication. Enhances problem solving, critical thinking, reading and communication skills within the context of epidemiology and biostatistics. Prerequisite: Post-secondary Biostatistics (preferred) or Statistics.
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5.0 |
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ENVH 8400 |
Research Methods
Examines the components of the research process and preparation of a research proposal. Under the guidance of a committee, allows independent work to select a research topic in a specialty area, and develop a detailed research proposal for the project to be conducted in ENVH 8410 (Applied Research Project). In addition to developing core competencies in the research process, enhances communication, problem solving, critical thinking and reading skills. Requires an off-campus practicum component. Prerequisites: ENVH 7266
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3.0 |
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| Level 8 |
Credits |
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CHEM 8442 |
Environmental Chemistry*
Profiles selected industries in terms of technological processes, environmental pollutants and chemical wastes generated. Examines treatment or detoxification methods employed to reduce the amount of toxic pollutants released into the environment. Assesses physical and chemical properties that determine the transport, fate and effects of hazardous waste substances. Concepts in redox, solution equilibria and organic chemistry are applied. Prerequisite: Post-secondary chemistry, organic chemistry preferred.
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2.5 |
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ENVH 1124 |
Pest Management*
Introduces pests of public health significance. Through lectures and laboratories, examines the life history, health significance and methods of identification of pests encountered by the graduate; and, in detail, examines current chemical, physical and biological control methods.
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2.5 |
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ENVH 4300 |
Food Equipment and Processing*
Addresses a wide range of food processing and preservation techniques relative to the survival and growth of microorganisms in foods. Discusses in detail examples of foods that are potentially hazardous. Examines legislation pertaining to the commercial food industry. Describes the operation, maintenance, cleaning and disinfection of common food facility equipment. Prerequisites: FOOD 3020
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2.5 |
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ENVH 8001 |
Environmental Health Risk Assessment*
Examines the concepts of risk assessment, risk management, risk perception and risk communication as they relate to the environmental health field. Using case studies, applies communication, problem solving, critical thinking and teamwork skills. Prerequisites: ENVH 7001 and ENVH 7002
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3.0 |
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ENVH 8410 |
Applied Research Project
This directed studies course focuses on the application and integration of knowledge and skills acquired in ENVH 8400 (Research Methods). Provides a faculty supervisor to monitor work with a sponsoring agency to independently complete the research project, prepare a formal research report and present research findings. Utilizes fiscal and time- management strategies, oral and written communication skills and critical thinking/problem solving abilities. Requires an off-campus/practicum component. Prerequisites: ENVH 8400
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5.0 |
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ENVH 8600 |
Practicum**
Focuses on the application and integration of environmental health concepts and principles in a real-life work situation (off-campus practicum). Enhances skills in critical thinking, problem solving, decision-making, communication and interpersonal relationships through participation in a variety of programs within an environmental health or other approved agency. Twelve weeks long, requires hours of work as assigned by the agency. Prerequisites: BHSC 7423
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17.0 |
* indicates a half-term course ** 12 weeks (to be completed either March-June or June-Aug) |
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| Liberal Studies Component: (12.0 credits required) |
Credits |
Mandatory Courses: (6.0 credits)
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LIBS 7001 |
Critical Reading and Writing
Develops advanced skills in critical analysis, close reading and composition through lectures, discussion and group activities in which students analyse and evaluate materials from various disciplines. Readings might come from professional journals, reports, newspapers, magazines and literature. Multimedia such as video, music and the Internet may also be included. Prerequisite: equivalent of three credits of university/college composition or six credits BCIT Communication.
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3.0 |
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LIBS 7002 |
Applied Ethics
Fosters abilities and values required for ethical decision making at work. Develops skills in logical analysis, a working knowledge of moral principles and theories, and the ability to diagnose and resolve moral disagreements commonly found at work. Examines and applies moral principles to historically famous cases in manufacturing, human resources, management, engineering, health care, and computing. Prerequisite: Equivalent of three credits of university/college composition or six credits of BCIT Communication.
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3.0 |
Elective Courses: (6.0 credits) All students will be required to achieve these credits in accordance with the BCIT policy on Liberal Studies course requirements. Information regarding topic areas and/or eligibility for transfer credits may be obtained from the Advanced Placement and Degree Programs office at 604-432-8230. |
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| Total Credits: |
125.5 |
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if
they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's
Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
program details
Program length
The program spans two years and begins in September of each year. The first year consists of full-time studies on campus. The second year consists of on-campus studies followed by a combination of practical experience, directed studies and guided learning (distance education).
Program structure
| A. Technical Component |
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Credits |
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1. Specialty Courses |
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93.5 |
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2. Management Courses |
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3.0 |
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3. Practical Experience |
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17.0 |
| B. Liberal Studies |
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12.0 |
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Total |
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125.5 |
graduating & jobs
Job Opportunities
Employment possibilities include municipal, regional, First Nations, provincial and national health agencies, environmental and pollution control agencies, bylaw enforcement and health education as well as private consulting firms and industries such as food processing, catering and fisheries.
PHIs/EHOs are often employed by municipal, regional, First Nations and federal health agencies. Salaries in British Columbia currently range from $51,000 to $74,000.
Professional associations
The Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI) accepts the BCIT Environmental
Health program for the academic portion of the national certification process. The International
Federation of Environmental Health also affiliates with the program.
You must have certification prior to being eligible to work as a PHI/EHO in many
locations across Canada. Acquire it through the Board of Certification (BOC) of the
Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors. The certification process is additional
to the academic work at BCIT. The certification exam has both written and oral components;
the cost is currently $500 (subject to change). To be eligible for certification you must
complete 12 weeks of practicum (field experience) under the supervision of a Certified
Public Health Inspector. ENVH 8600 (Practicum) satisfies this requirement.
As BCIT strives to keep our programs current, programs and courses are subject to change without notice.
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