Master of Science in Safety and Health Management

Academics
Engineering
Safety and Health Management
Master of Science in Safety and Health Management

Master of Science in Safety and Health Management

The goal of the Safety and Health Management (SHM) master's degree program is to provide students with an education or industry background in safety with the leadership, analytical, and administrative skills needed move from a compliance manager to a strategic corporate leader across critical sectors like agriculture, petrochemicals, governments, construction, insurance, and more.

The MS-SHM degree program is explicitly built to prepare students for high-impact organizational leadership roles by integrating modern Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) principles. You won't just learn how to run daily EHS operations; you will master how to design resilient systems that account for human error, leverage workforce expertise, and foster a proactive, blameless culture. This program empowers you to lead cutting-edge, research-supported risk assessments and align operational learning with overall corporate strategy, positioning you as a vital advisor to C-suite decision-makers.

Now accepting applications on a rolling basis.

Apply today! Choose to start any quarter!

CWU Graduate Studies and Research

Curriculum

SHM 501 - Safety Sciences Credits: (5)

SHM 554 - Risk Management Principles and Practices Credits: (4)

SHM 570 - Safety in Complex Sociotechnical Systems Credits: (3)

SHM 573 - Crisis Management and Continuity of Operations Credits: (4)

SHM 574 - Advanced Safety and Health Management Systems Credits: (4)

SHM 575 - EHS Administration and Ethics Credits: (4)

SHM 576 - EHS Program Management Credits: (4)

SHM 577 - Environmental Safety and Sustainability Program Management Credits: (4)

SHM 578 - EHS Analytics Credits: (4)

SHM 582 - EHS Research Methods Credits: (5)

SHM 689 - SHM Masters Capstone Credits: (4)

Total Credits: 45
Virtual Information Session

We recently held a virtual info session on this 100% online program led by Dr. Jennifer Serne which is designed for working professionals who want to strengthen their leadership, analytical, and risk management skills while continuing to work full-time.

To view the session recording visit ETSC YouTube - MS S&H Info Session

Applications are currently being accepted on a rolling basis. If you are considering advancing your career in safety and health leadership, we encourage you to take the next step and apply above.

If you have additional questions, Dr. Serne is happy to connect and provide more information about the curriculum, outcomes, and fit for your professional goals. Feel free to email her at: jennifer.serne@cwu.edu.
FAQ

What is the MS in Occupational Safety and Health Management?

The Master of Science in Occupational Safety and Health Management is a graduate program designed for working professionals who want to advance their leadership, analytical, and risk management skills. The program emphasizes proactive safety culture, applied risk assessment, communication, and decision-making beyond regulatory compliance.

Who is eligible to apply?

This program is intended for professionals who are currently working in, or moving toward, roles that involve safety, risk management, or organizational leadership.

Applicants typically have:

· A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

· Professional experience in safety, health, construction, manufacturing, engineering, public service, or related fields

Applicants from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds may be considered. Eligibility is reviewed holistically, taking into account education, professional experience, and career goals.

If you are unsure whether your background is a fit, we encourage you to attend an information session or contact the program directly to discuss your individual situation.

Do I need a specific undergraduate major?

No. While many students come from safety or construction-related backgrounds, the program welcomes applicants from a variety of disciplines who have relevant professional experience.

Is the program fully online?

Yes. The program is 100% online and asynchronous, allowing students to complete coursework on a flexible schedule while continuing to work full time.

What is the typical duration of this program for a full-time student?

The length of the program is 6 quarters which equates to 2 calendar years.

Can I attend part time?

Yes! Full time students take two classes per quarter; however, we can work with you if one class per quarter is a better fit for you. You can inform Dr. Serne your intentions to attend part-time by mentioning it in your Personal Statement when you apply. If you have questions about attending part-time, reach out to jennifer.serne@cwu.edu.

What is the cost of tuition?

Each quarter is typically 8 credits (2 courses) except the last quarter which only has one course. You will have 6 quarters unless you are attending part-time. If you are using a WA State Employee Waiver you can have up to 6 credits covered each quarter. Use the rate sheets below to roughly calculate your out of pocket expense if you are attending full-time.

These rates are for 2026-2027 only. An updated sheet for 2026-2027 will be posted next year.

Domestic Students:

International Students:

Is there financial assistance?

Yes. Students can apply for FAFSA and WA State employees can utilize tuition waivers.

Who teaches in the program?

The program is led by Dr. Jennifer Serne, a respected leader in the field of safety leadership, along with experienced graduate faculty who bring both academic and industry perspectives.

What will I Learn?

· Evaluate and manage workplace risks through data-driven analysis

· Design and direct effective safety audits, surveys, and training

· Communicate EHS strategies and findings to management

· Lead ethically and strategically in safety and health management roles

Are applications currently being accepted?

Yes. We accept and review applications year-round, allowing you to begin your program during any quarter. Because we review files sequentially as they are completed, spaces for each term are limited. Early submission is strongly advised to secure your preferred start quarter.

When will the program start?

Our rolling admissions process allows you to begin the program during any quarter.

Admitted students will receive on-boarding information, advising support, and next steps prior to the start date of the next quarter and can defer their start to the quarter of their choice.

Will there be opportunities to connect in person?

Yes. In addition to the online engagement, the program hosts optional one-day, in-person connection events for students who are able to attend.

What do I need to have ready to apply?

· Official Transcripts (CWU alumni do not need to send transcripts)

· Statement of educational and professional objectives

· Resume

· One letter of recommendation

When filling out the application, please add your recommender to the recommender page.
Have recommenders address their letters to Dr. Jennifer Serne and make sure to check the option to NOT have the recommender upload a letter online.
Alumni Testimonial