Safety Science is the application of physical, health and behavioural sciences to the health, safety and well being of people at work and in other activities. Since Safety Science is about both people and technology, it is an ideal choice for those who are interested in science but who want a people-focused career. Safety is not just about making unsafe things safe. It is about better design, more extensive consideration of how things interact with people and environment, and about better management and control of things that are dangerous.

Industry and commerce is becoming increasingly concerned about the safety of people and also about reducing the impact of commercial activities on the environment. Study in Safety Science gives you the opportunity to qualify as a scientist as well as working a safety professional. It gives you an understanding of the practical safety and environmental issues that concern a scientist at work.

Studying Safety Science at UNSW

Safety Science is available as both a major or a minor in a number of Science-based undergraduate degree programs. Please refer to the table below for a complete list. Safety Science is also offered for postgraduates through PhD (Research) and Masters (Research and/or Coursework) degree programs, as well as Graduate Diploma and Certificate programs.