MISSION STATEMENT

The academic programs in the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) at Murray State University provide a comprehensive broad based educational background to prepare practical-oriented and academically sound graduates for entry-level and advanced positions in the safety, health and environmental profession. The degree programs provide the technical and professional knowledge required by individuals pursuing careers in safety management, occupational health, industrial hygiene, loss/risk control management, ergonomics, emergency planning and response, and environmental health and safety. Our graduates are academically prepared to pursue advanced degrees in higher education. Our mission and purpose include:

 

á    A core value of the OSH Department is teaching excellence to provide quality education that prepares the very best graduates possible to serve in the challenging roles of safety, health and environmental professionals.

á    The OSH Department places a high premium on academic outreach, collaborative relationships with business and industry, government agencies and other universities at home and abroad.

á    The OSH Department emphasizes student-centered learning and educational experiences that include internships, co-ops, study- abroad programs, service learning, research and creative projects, and professional organizations that enhance and strengthen their academic preparation.

á   The OSH Department prepares graduates to function in a culturally diverse, technologically orientated society and increasingly interdependent world.

á    The OSH Department conducts research to contribute to the scientific safety, health and environmental community.

á    The OSH Department assists the College of Health Sciences and Human Services and the University at large in achieving their missions.

 

PROGRAM EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

 The objectives of the Occupational Safety and Health undergraduate and graduate programs at Murray State University are to prepare graduates who:

 

1. apply a broad educational background in mathematics, science, technology, and management as Occupational Safety and Health Professionals in state, regional, national or international levels in industry, government, or academia. (a,b,c,d,f,h,j,k)

 

2. are critical thinkers and anticipate, identify and evaluate hazardous conditions and practices, and implement effective hazard control strategies in such areas as accident prevention, safety management, occupational health, industrial hygiene, loss/risk control management, ergonomics, emergency planning and response, and environmental health and safety. (a,b,c,d,j,k)

 

3. are effective communicators and ethical leaders within the Occupational Safety and Health profession. (e,f,g,h,i,j,k)

 

4. pursue life-long learning to effectively practice within a rapidly evolving, continually changing, and increasingly diverse global environment. (g,h,i,j,k)

 

 PROGRAM OUTCOMES

Baccalaureate and Master of Science degree students graduating from the Occupational Safety and Health programs at Murray State University will demonstrate the following:

 

1. ability to apply basic mathematical and scientific knowledge in the safety and health field.
2. ability to analyze and interpret data pertinent to the safety and health field, and to design and conduct experiments.
3. ability to anticipate, identify, and evaluate hazardous conditions and practices, and to identify and solve applied science problems.
4. ability to develop and implement hazard control methods, procedures, programs, and system designs.
5. ability to function as a part of multi-disciplinary teams.
6. understanding of ethical behaviors and professional responsibility.
7. ability to express thoughts effectively in oral and written communications.
8. broad education necessary to understand safety and health issues within a global and social context.
9. recognition of the need for continuous life-long learning in chosen professional career.
10. knowledge of current safety and health issues.
11. ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern scientific and technical tools necessary for professional practice and to demonstrate mastery of the field of safety and health.