Program Description
Environmental Resource Management is an interdisciplinary major administered by the Dean of the School of Business and Public Administration. The major is a program of study that includes coursework in the following areas: (1) physical and life sciences relating to natural resource use; (2) the legal aspects of resource ownership and use; and (3) the economic and political aspects of resource allocation and environmental protection. The program also includes basic skills courses in areas such as communications, computers, statistics, and management.
The ERM major is of sufficient breadth to prepare graduates for entry into a wide range of careers relating to the use, management, and protection of environmental assets. These careers are in areas such as resource analysis and planning, occupational safety, environmental health, compliance, technical and environmental staff support, permitting, and real estate development. Graduates typically find employment in both the private and public sectors. Public agencies such as the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the United States Forest Service (USFS) typically hire individuals with skills provided within the program.
The program also requires a concentration (typically four courses), which further enhances the student experience. The concentration also gives students an opportunity to specialize in select areas. Concentrations can include Forestry, Environmental Health, Land Use Policy and Planning and Occupational Safety and Health. Distant students can complete the Bachelor’s Degree on-line from anywhere in the United States through the Internet. In furtherance of the university mission, the ERM program has community partnerships, through which the program is able to offer courses and internships in the area of Occupational Safety and Health, and Environmental Health. The ERM experience is rounded out via students engaging in such internships.
Student Networking
Student membership in the Bakersfield Chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers is available and provides invaluable resources to help the transition from CSUB student life to a successful environmental, health, and safety career. ASSE student membership benefits include a subscription to ASSE’s monthly publication, professional networking and access to job announcements, professional development, and access to over $170,000 of student grants and scholarships.
Job Outlook
Jobs in the occupational safety and health professions are expected to increase by 10 to 15 percent over the next decade. Occupational demand will be especially strong in regions such as Kern County with large goods-producing sectors such as petroleum and natural gas, renewable energy, agriculture, and construction fueled by population growth. Manufacturing, health care, national defense, and government also offer employment opportunities.
The Profession
Safety professionals are employed across a wide range of industries to prevent injuries, illnesses, and related losses. Their duties often include recognizing hazards, conducting safety inspections & audits, complying with regulations and record keeping, managing hazardous materials, performing accident and incident investigations, planning and participating in emergency responses, training employees and managing safety programs, and advising management.
Certification
Professional certification is highly valued by employers for mid-career and senior positions. The Certified Safety Credential (CSP) designation is obtainable through completion of CSUB’s Environmental Resource Management degree program, professional experience, and passage of two examinations.
The Aera Occupational Safety and Health Program works closely with the following:
- Work Force Staffing (founding donor)
- ASSE, Bakersfield Chapter
- Braun Electric
- Chevron
- Golden State Drilling
- Key Energy
- KS Industries
- Nabors Well Service
- Paramount Petroleum (ALON)
- Pacific Gas and Electric Company
- Plains Exploration & Production Company
- The Industrial Company (TIC)
Thanks also to:
- Berry Petroleum, Independent Oil Producers’
- Agency, KVS Transportation, Robert Heely
- Construction, Sturgeon Services Int’l
Alumni Profile
| Member | Occupation |
|---|---|
| Sheila Barela | Environmental Health & Safety Specialist CSU Bakersfield |
| Joe Barriffi | Lead Health & Safety Advisor Aera Energy LLC |
| Jeremiah Cravens | Eastern Kern Air Pollution Control District |
| Donna Fenton | Food, Land & Water Division Chief Kern County Environmental Health |
| Brian Lane | Health & Safety Specialist Aera Energy LLC |