Careers
Related Skills
These skills will help you have a successful career in the occupational safety and health field.
Our program at Illinois State will give you the education and experience to develop these skills.
Leadership
Occupational safety and health professionals are often called upon to be leaders. They must be able to recognize hazards and threats, and take action.
To be an effective leader, strong communication skills are crucial. This will help you teach and motivate others to act.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Occupational safety and health professionals often manage situations that have a lot going on at one time. They have to analyze the risks and benefits of actions and communicate with diverse groups.
Having good critical thinking and problem-solving skills will help you manage these challenges. and remain calm in tense situations.
Technology
Professionals use specialized equipment to monitor and control hazards. The flexibility to learn new equipment and technology is important.
Related Fields
General job titles people with an Occupational Safety and Health degree might include:
- Accident Prevention Officer
- Industrial Hygienist
- Industrial Safety Supervisor
- Loss Prevention Engineer
- Manager of Safety and Health
- Risk Manager
- Safety Analyst
Occupational Safety and Health majors at Illinois State have found success in the field.
Matthew, ’23, Mount Prospect, IL
What are you up to since graduation?
“I am a project safety professional with Turner Construction in Chicago, and I am currently managing the safety at the Obama Presidential Center.”
Why Health Sciences?
“I chose Health Sciences because of the practical approach to everything from public speaking to preparing for certification exams. The small class sizes allowed me to build relationships with professors and classmates.”
Any advice for new students in Health Sciences?
“Take full advantage of all the great resources Health Sciences has to offer. I often refer directly to what I learned in class while in my current position.”
Delaney, ’25, New Lenox, IL
Why Health Sciences?
“Health Sciences is an excellent and welcoming department and community. My major in OSH has been the most amazing experience for my professional growth. I have made memorable relationships with faculty and really connected with the other students. These two things are key to my success at ISU.”
High points from your time in Health Sciences?
“Some of my high points include the growth in my confidence, communication skills, leadership and feeling part of something special. I serve as the President of the Illinois State Student Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals, and I am a Health Sciences Ambassador. I also work for the university’s Environmental Health and Safety department. I’m thankful for the motivating and influential people who guided me into these positions.”
Any advice for new students in Health Sciences?
“The best advice I can give is to know that you always have a special place in the department and try to get involved as much as you can. Getting involved and communicating with your peers and faculty will make a significant difference in your academic and personal life.”
Career Industry Liaison
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nick Radcliffe | 223 Bone Student Center | nrradcl@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2200 |
Internship Coordinator
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amy Timmerman | FHS 306B | amtimm1@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-8808 |