Environmental Health

Diploma Environmental Health

Environmental health course is a field of study that addresses biological, chemical and physical factors external to a person, and all other relevant factors that have an impact on behaviours. It entails the evaluation and control of environmental factors that have the potential of affecting human health. The main objective of the discipline is to create health supportive environments and prevent diseases. Behaviours unrelated to external environment like those associated with culture or genetics are not covered under this heading.

Defining environmental health is not easy. According to one of the definitions offered by the World Health Organization, environmental health deals with the areas of human health and the quality of life that depend on biological, physical, chemical, psychological and social environmental factors. It involves assessment, prevention, control and correction of environmental factors that can have an adverse impact on the health of present and coming generations.

The monitoring and control activities carried out to implement environmental health policies are termed as environmental health services. The services also involve promotion of environmentally friendly behaviours and technologies, and encouragement of better environmental parameters. Environmental health professionals also play an important role in the development of new policy areas.

About 25% of the diseases occurring worldwide are a result of environmental hazards. Healthier environment can help prevent as many as 13 million deaths annually. The importance of environmental health is clear from this fact. The Environmental Health course program offered by Victoria International College (VIC) deals with the assessment of health problems, scientific understanding of the causes and possible solutions for the control and correction of major environmental issues faced by developing as well as industrialized nations.

Biological organisms, chemicals and other contaminants are a part of our routine life. Some contaminants like chemicals are manmade, while those like mold occur naturally. Exposure to contaminants can cause health issues like neurological problems, reproductive issues, respiratory disorders and even cancer. The level of toxicity differs from one contaminant to another. It is the responsibility of an environmental health professional to identify the source of contamination, study the contaminant and its pathway, and come up with possible approaches to control or correct the issue.

Diploma in environmental health course can mean different things to different agencies. It means septic systems, building permits and food safety to local health departments, while it means tackling natural calamities like floods and earthquakes for federal agencies. VIC's Environmental Health program is recognized by government as well as private sector. This means that environmental health graduates from VIC are eligible for employment in government as well as private sector environmental health agencies.

Why Choose This Course?

Environmental health has a direct impact into everyone's lives throughout the globe and that is why a student with diploma in environment health becomes ensure of everything related to the health. Such as that the food they buy is eatable, the air they breathe is not filled with contaminants, that the places where they work in the future or visit are safe, that the environment is not filled with pests or fly tipped waste and that do they have peaceful enjoyment of their home. Students who pursue the Diploma in Environmental Health can also further study into higher degree program.

Students will become able of identifying environmental health issues. They can conduct professional evaluation and assessment with efficient control and precautionary measures to overcome issues related to environment. Through this environmental health program students will be exposed to the various public health legislations and enforcement procedures, which would make them efficient enforcement officers in the public sector such as; the Ministry of Health or Local Authorities. The career prospects after this diploma includes Assistant Environment Health Officer in Ministry of Health & Local Authorities, Environmental Health Control & Research Officer, Safety and Hygiene Officer, VIC programs are especially designed for the overall development of students which means that the career prospects for all VIC students are bright in any of the discipline.

Environmental health is a field of study that addresses biological, chemical and physical factors external to a person, and all other relevant factors that have an impact on behaviors. It entails the evaluation and control of environmental factors that have the potential of affecting human health. The main objective of the discipline is to create health supportive environments and prevent diseases. Behaviors unrelated to external environment like those associated with culture or genetics are not covered under this heading.

Defining environmental health is not easy. According to one of the definitions offered by the World Health Organization, environmental health deals with the areas of human health and the quality of life that depend on biological, physical, chemical, psychological and social environmental factors. It involves assessment, prevention, control and correction of environmental factors that can have an adverse impact on the health of present and coming generations.

The monitoring and control activities carried out to implement environmental health policies are termed as environmental health services. The services also involve promotion of environmentally friendly behaviors and technologies, and encouragement of better environmental parameters. Environmental health professionals also play an important role in the development of new policy areas.

About 25% of the diseases occurring worldwide are a result of environmental hazards. Healthier environment can help prevent as many as 13 million deaths annually. The importance of environmental health is clear from this fact. The Environmental Health program offered by Victoria International College (VIC) deals with the assessment of health problems, scientific understanding of the causes and possible solutions for the control and correction of major environmental issues faced by developing as well as industrialized nations.

Biological organisms, chemicals and other contaminants are a part of our routine life. Some contaminants like chemicals are manmade, while those like mold occur naturally. Exposure to contaminants can cause health issues like neurological problems, reproductive issues, respiratory disorders and even cancer. The level of toxicity differs from one contaminant to another. It is the responsibility of an environmental health professional to identify the source of contamination, study the contaminant and its pathway, and come up with possible approaches to control or correct the issue.

Environmental health can mean different things to different agencies. It means septic systems, building permits and food safety to local health departments, while it means tackling natural calamities like floods and earthquakes for federal agencies. VIC's Environmental Health program is recognized by government as well as private sector. This means that environmental health graduates from VIC are eligible for employment in government as well as private sector environmental health agencies.

About the Course

VIC's Environmental Health course has been designed to fulfill the needs of the industry. The program covers a wide range of theoretical and practical subjects. This ensures that all the students receive the fundamental knowledge as well as the skills required for succeeding in the industry. The course is designed to provide well-rounded education and training for success in environmental health sector. Some of the topics that will be taught in the duration of the course include:

• Reaction of the human body to environmental pollutants
• Physical, chemical and biological agents of environmental contamination
• Vectors for dissemination (air, water, soil)
• Solid and hazardous waste
• Susceptible populations
• Biomarkers and risk analysis
• Scientific basis for environmental health policy decisions
• Emerging global environmental health problems

Reaction of the human body to environmental pollutants: The adverse effects of environmental pollutants on human body have been proved by a number of scientific studies. Every day as many as 14,000 deaths occur because of contaminated water. Contaminated air has the potential of causing adverse effects or even death of many organisms including human beings. Cardiovascular abnormalities, respiratory disorders, chest pain, congestion and throat inflammation - these are some of the effects of ozone pollution. All such human bodily reactions to environmental pollutants are covered under this subject.

Physical, chemical and biological agents of environmental contamination: Environmental pollution is caused by physical agents like dust and plastic, chemicals agents like acetone and formaldehyde as well as biological agents like various microorganisms. This subject will help you gain an understanding of various types of environmental contaminants.

Vectors for dissemination: Air, soil and water are the main carriers for different types of pollutants. Pathways through which contaminants are transferred from the environment to human beings are discussed in this subject.

Solid and hazardous waste: Hazardous waste can be found in solid, liquid as well as gaseous forms. This subject will focus on the sources, pathways and possible solutions for solid and hazardous waste.

Susceptible populations: The extent of risk posed by environmental contaminants differs from one region to another. For instance, the level of danger is considerably higher in developing countries like China and India. This subject will provide an understanding of the susceptibility of different populaces to environmental hazards.

Biomarkers and risk analysis: The key cellular or molecular events that link particular environmental exposures to certain health outcomes are known as biomarkers. As such, they are important to understand the connection between the development of disease and exposure to environmental agents, and to identify the groups facing high risk. The knowledge of biomarkers and risk analyzing capability is essential for an environmental health professional and the subject aims to develop these.

Scientific basis for environmental health policy decisions: Environmental health professionals play an important role in both the development as well as the implementation of environmental health policies. In order to formulate effective policies, the professionals need a sound scientific base. This subject aims to offer the same.

Emerging global environmental health problems: Human activities have lead to a number of environmental issues, which in turn are causing adverse health effects. Some of the major environmental issues include climate change, land degeneration, ozone depletion, and air, water and land pollution. All these have the potential of causing hazardous health effects. For instance, air pollution can lead to respiratory disorders. This subject familiarizes students with the current and emerging environmental health issues and suggests possible solutions for the same.

The Environmental Health program ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. As the course has been designed with a specific focus on the industry, it results in the development of capabilities that are essential to fulfill the needs of the sector. The objectives of VIC's Environmental Health program include -

• Familiarizing students with the core of current environmental health agenda
• Creating environmental health professionals capable of making useful contribution to health management in private, non-profit as well as public sectors
• Providing a wide range of skills and experience that are transferable
• Developing theoretical foundation and practical skills that are sought by employers
• Enabling students to take advantage of the unrivalled range of opportunities offered by the environmental health sector

The Environmental Health program ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. As the course has been designed with a specific focus on the industry, it results in the development of capabilities that are essential to fulfill the needs of the sector. The objectives of VIC's Environmental Health program include -

Why Choose this Course?

In the wake of various natural and manmade environmental disasters, both government and private sectors across the globe are putting stress on the area. This has created a huge demand for professionals trained in the subject. VIC's Environmental Health program can help you take advantage of these opportunities.

The program focuses on industry requirements. The course aims to provide knowledge and develop skills that are sought by employers in environmental health professionals. Apart from the theoretical study, the course also involves practical work. This includes projects, field trips, case studies and other hands-on activities. These allow you to apply the knowledge gained in classrooms in real-world scenarios.

Environmental Health course is a dynamic and complex area of study. In order to succeed in this sector, you need both fundamental subject knowledge as well as skills like problem solving, critical thinking, communication and decision making. The Environmental Health program offered by VIC has been designed with this in mind.

Upon the completion of this course you will be able to-

• Define the types of environmental agents and their sources
• Understand the transport and ultimate fate of the environmental agents
• Explain the modes of interaction between biological systems and environmental agents
• Describe the mechanisms through which environmental agents exert adverse impact on human health
• Recognize vectors or carriers that transfer contaminants to humans from the environment
• Use various models to estimate the scale of adverse effects cause by environmental agents on biological systems
• Define the steps involved in the process of risk assessment and management
• Identify the knowledge gaps with regards to the health effects of environmental agents, and risk assessment and management

Such capabilities make our students prize hires for potential employers. The current global environmental condition indicates that the need for environmental health professionals is likely to increase further in the near future. VIC's Environmental Health program can provide you with the tools and skills required to make the most of the wide rage of opportunities offered by the sector.

Career Prospects for Students

VIC Environmental Health course graduates possess strong theoretical foundation and analytical skills. This enables them to succeed in a wide range of professions. Some of the sectors where environmental health professionals can find employment include -

• Health and safety management
• Environmental consultancy
• Food industry
• Housing
• Waste management
• Public water utilities

A majority of the graduates are likely to be employed as Environmental Health Officers (EHO). Both government authorities as well as private sectors employ EHOs. These officers are in charge of the formation and implementation of environmental health policies. The responsibilities of an environmental health officer include -

• Conducting regular health and safety assessments
• Providing health and safety suggestions for new buildings
• Ensuring confirmation with the health and safety guidelines
• Examining private and rented accommodations
• Supervising radiation and pollution levels
• Investigating occupational accidents
• Making arrangements for the disposal of refuse

Apart from the office work, the job responsibilities may also involve promoting awareness on different aspects of environmental health and visiting sites to ensure conformation with the policies. The qualities required in an EHO include effective communication skills, assertiveness, team spirit, decision making skills and diplomacy. The Environmental Health program offered by VIC helps in the development of these qualities.

With increase in environmental awareness across private sector, the demand for environmental health professionals for the role of corporate social responsibility specialist is also increasing. Whether you want to pursue a career in private sector or public sector, the program acts a stepping stone for successful entry into the world of environmental health.

Studying Further

After the completion of Environmental Health course, you can also opt to study further. You can specialize in areas like pubic health, housing, food safety, environmental protection and occupational hazard. A Masters degree provides in depth knowledge of the subject. It can further improve your career prospects. Graduate degree in Environmental Health from VIC makes you eligible for higher education not only in Malaysia, but also abroad.

About Victoria International College

Victoria International College is well known as a one of the best international learning centers. The institute has been offering quality educational services for over 35 years. VIC is dedicated to ensuring the quality of education and providing the tools and support necessary for you to achieve your goals. Fully qualified, experienced and enthusiastic faculty, world class facilities that include library, laboratories, examination halls, canteen and accommodation, and multicultural learning environment makes the experience of studying at VIC unique.

The Victoria college provides industry driven, relevant and holistic education. The Environmental Health program has been created with the aim of fulfilling the increasing demand for qualified professionals in the area. Combination of theoretical and practical education ensures that students gain the knowledge as well as the skills that are sought by employers. An interesting mix of environmental health topics, activities for the development of general skills like communication, negotiation, management, analysis and evaluation, group projects, visits and case studies ensure that studying at VIC is never dull.

Upon successful completion of Environmental Health program from VIC, you will be deemed an Environmental Health professional. After the course you can either take up employment or purse further studies. Other course which are offered by Kolej Victoria are:

• BSc Software Systems
• Bachelor in Business Administration (B.B.A)
• B. A. in Economics
• Bachelor of Commerce in Professional Accounting
• BSc in Multimedia and Web Technology
• BA in Education
• Bachelor of Commerce
• BA in Economics with Logistics and Freight Management
• Certificate in Business Administration
• Certificate in Hotel and Catering Management
• Certificate in Travel Operation
• Certificate in Project Management Level 1 and 2
• Diploma in Accountancy
• Diploma in Business Administration
• Diploma In Business Information Technology
• Diploma in Computer Science
• Diploma in Childhood Education and Kindergarten Management
• Diploma in Culinary Arts
• Diploma in Special Needs
• Diploma in Risk Management
• Diploma in Information and Communication Technology
• Diploma in Games Design
• Diploma in IT Security
• Diploma in Hotel & Catering Management
• Diploma in Human Resource Management
• Diploma in Electric & Electronic Engineering
• Diploma in International Relation
• Diploma in Sales and Marketing
• Diploma in Health Sciences
• Diploma in Environmental Health
• Diploma in Healthcare Administration
• Diploma in Health Information System
• Diploma in Marine Safety
• Diploma in Nursing
• Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA)
• Diploma in Pharmacy Assistance
• Diploma in Physiotherapy
• Executive Diploma in Business Management
• Executive Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM)
• Foundation in Arts
• Foundation in Business
• Foundation in Information Technology
• Foundation in Science
• SKM Programmes
• Setiausaha Koprat - Tahap 3,4, & 5 (Kursus Vokasional)
• Kulinari Kursus - Tahap 2,3,4 & 5 (Kursus Vokasional)
• Multimedia Kursus - Tahap 2,3, & 4 (Kursus Vokasional)
• Rangkaian Komputer Kursus - Tahap 3 & 4 (Kursus Vokasional)
• Mekatronic Kursus - Tahap 2, 3 & 4 (Kursus Vokasional)