Career roadmap
How to Become an Environmental Health Specialist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an environmental health specialist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an environmental health specialist: (1) earn a science degree, (2) get hired as a trainee, (3) complete standardization, (4) earn REHS/RS registration, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an environmental health specialist
Earn a science degree
Environmental health, biology or chemistry are common.
Get hired as a trainee
Health departments train new staff in the field.
Complete standardization
Learn the food code and inspection procedures.
Earn REHS/RS registration
Pass the exam and meet state requirements.
Advance
Become a senior specialist, program supervisor or environmental health director.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in environmental health, biology, chemistry or a related science is typical. Accredited environmental health programs are preferred by many health departments.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS/RS): National credential from NEHA.
- State sanitarian registration: Required by many states to inspect independently.
- Certified Professional–Food Safety (CP-FS): NEHA credential for food safety professionals.
- Certified Pool Operator (CPO): Pool and spa operation training.
Skills to build now
Start with food code knowledge, inspection techniques, and water and pool testing, and practice communication and diplomacy. Learning the environmental health specialist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Environmental Health Trainee: Learn inspections and codes.
- Environmental Health Specialist: Inspect and enforce independently.
- Senior Specialist or Program Supervisor: Lead programs such as food or water.
- Environmental Health Director: Lead a health department’s environmental programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Environmental Health Specialist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do health inspectors need a degree?
Usually a bachelor’s degree in a science is required.
How long does it take to become an environmental health specialist?
Most people need about 4 years of training. A bachelor’s degree in environmental health, biology, chemistry or a related science is typical. Accredited environmental health programs are preferred by many health departments.
Do you need a degree to be an environmental health specialist?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, and many states require science coursework for registration. Some health departments hire environmental health technicians with associate degrees for assistant roles.
What certifications are available for environmental health specialists?
Common credentials include Registered Environmental Health Specialist (REHS/RS), State sanitarian registration, Certified Professional–Food Safety (CP-FS), and Certified Pool Operator (CPO). Many states require environmental health specialists to be registered or licensed, often through the REHS/RS exam or a state exam.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 19-2041 (Environmental scientists and specialists, including health).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Environmental scientists and specialists, including health (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.