Occupational Safety (Online), AAS

Why Study Occupational Safety?

Occupational safety is essential for protecting workers from harm. With an associate degree in occupational safety, you can ensure that employees perform their jobs in a safe and healthy environment. Learn how to evaluate work environments, procedures, and equipment. Study regulations from government agencies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Upon graduation, you’ll be knowledgeable in:

• Applying regulatory requirements and industry best practices
• Cost analysis and budgeting
• General safety management
• Hazard assessment in the workplace
• Safety training

There is an increased demand for occupational safety workers because many businesses are required to have safety departments. With the online Occupational Safety AAS, you'll be able to start or advance your career in this important field.

In many occupational safety programs, you can earn a certificate or associate degree. While both offer the classes you need for your career, the Occupational Safety AAS from San Juan College provides you with a more versatile education, preparing you for better-paying jobs and quicker promotions. Your additional courses teach you:

• About various industries that employ safety technicians and specialists
• Communication and leadership skills

Why Earn an AAS in Occupational Safety at San Juan College?

100% Online Safety Degree Program

Complete your Occupational Safety AAS from wherever you are. Our program offers its courses completely online, meaning you can be employed and take classes at the same time.

At SJC, you'll get flexibility that fits your life. Each major course is divided into time-wise courses designed to fit into busy schedules. That means they can be completed in eight weeks, allowing you to cover the material in half the time of a traditional semester to accelerate your learning. All of our classes are offered year-round, so you can take them when you have time.

OSHA-Based and Other Regulatory Training

Our Occupational Safety AAS covers a range of regulatory policies that pertain to workplace safety, including OSHA standards. Here are some of the regulatory policies you will learn about:

• OSHA Standards: OSHA is the primary federal agency responsible for enforcing safety regulations in the workplace. Much of your training is based on OSHA standards, including hazardous materials handling, emergency planning, and accident investigation.
• Environmental Regulations: Study environmental regulations that affect workplace safety, such as the Federal Clean Air Act, and perform hazard assessments.
• Fire Safety Regulations: Understand fire safety regulations, such as the Uniform Fire Code and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards. You'll learn about fire prevention, fire suppression and detection systems, and flammable gas and liquid safety.
• Workers' Compensation Laws: Learn to navigate the over 100 laws and regulations that govern worker injuries, correct mistakes and keep costs under control.

Approved G.I. Bill® Online Distance Learning

Are you a veteran who wants to begin a career in occupational safety? You can use the G.I. Bill® for Occupational Safety online courses at San Juan College! Learn more about distance learning under the Post-9/11 GI Bill®. Contact SJC's Veteran Center to help you get started.

Affordable Option

SJC's low tuition rates make the Occupational Safety AAS degree program an excellent investment for you. You'll receive a high-quality education that prepares you for your career. You may also qualify to earn your degree tuition-free through the NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships.

What You'll Learn in the Occupational Safety Online Program

Get a thorough understanding of safety management in various workplaces with an Occupational Safety AAS. At SJC, learn how to evaluate work environments, procedures, and equipment to ensure compliance with regulations. Topics in the occupational study curriculum include:

• Environmental Management
• Fire Prevention and Protection
• Fleet Safety
• Hazard Communication & Right-To-Know
• Industrial Hygiene
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Safety & Health Training
• Worker's Compensation

Through your knowledge and skills, you will qualify for the Associate Safety Professional (ASP) exam to earn your credential with one year of experience upon graduation.

You'll also graduate knowing about a variety of industries that commonly employ safety professionals, including energy. Your associate degree also includes general education courses that will help you become a better communicator and critical thinker, positioning you to advance in your career.

Occupational Safety AAS Curriculum

Transfer Option

Start your journey toward earning a bachelor's degree in occupational safety through SJC. We have a transfer agreement with Waldorf University that allows you to transfer your Occupational Safety AAS. There you can complete a bachelor's degree in occupational safety in as little as two years. Plus, their program is offered completely online, which means you can complete your degree wherever you live. Save time and money through our transfer option. Contact the Occupational Safety Coordinator to find out more. 

Careers and Outcomes for Occupational Safety AAS Graduates

By earning an associate degree in occupational safety, you can advance quickly in many industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall employment of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians is projected to grow 5% from 2021 to 2031. This demand may grow as more workplaces look for qualified workers to ensure safety and compliance.

Occupational safety graduates are hired for safety positions in many workplaces, including the following popular industries:

• Construction
• Emergency management
• Energy
• Entertainment
• Government agencies
• Hospitals
• Manufacturing
• Military
• Mining
• Solid waste

View SJC's Occupational Safety Job Listings

Online Learning Success